Florida Atlantic University

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

President Brogan signed the Presidents Climate Commitment. Florida Atlantic University plans to adopt an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy and has entered into a new custodial contract requiring 100 percent green cleaning supplies. The Campus Sustainability Committee is comprised of faculty, staff, and students.

Along with taking steps to fulfill the Presidents Climate Commitment requirements, FAU is working to identify and implement energy-saving opportunities and projects. Designated Green Rooms showcase Energy Star appliances and identify ways in which each student can conserve energy.

The dining services director is negotiating both a rooftop garden and a community garden. FAU's sustainable food purchases include hormone-free meats and cage-free eggs. Dining services has implemented campaigns to encourage patrons to waste less food, and has subsequently seen a 25 percent decrease in food waste. The “Move It Out—Don’t Throw It Out” program encourages students to donate unwanted items. All yard clippings are composted or recycled.

FAU has adopted a policy for all new construction to be built to LEED Silver standards, at a minimum. The Pine Jog Environmental Education Center is registered to be LEED-certified. The College of Nursing building has received LEED Gold certification. Construction will begin soon on the new College of Engineering and Computer Science building, which will pursue LEED Platinum certification.

The housing department employs one part-time student to work primarily on sustainability issues, such as recycling and creating programs to raise awareness. Housing has held competitions between buildings for the largest reduction in energy consumption.

A shuttle runs between campus and the Tri-Rail station and employees can receive discount transit passes. The university plans to distribute information to the FAU community regarding the benefits of riding the Tri-Rail and using the shuttle bus. Carpoolers receive reduced-rate parking permits and reserved parking, and designated parking spaces exist for electric and hybrid cars. The university is looking into partnering with a car-sharing program.

The university makes neither its shareholder voting record nor its list of endowment holdings public. This information is only available to trustees and senior administrators.

The university aims to optimize investment return and does not invest in renewable energy funds or community development loan funds.

The university asks that its investment managers handle the details of proxy voting.