Sewanee–The University of the South

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

President Cunningham signed the Presidents Climate Commitment and the university is a signatory to the Talloires Declaration. A strategic planning addendum proposing that Sewanee undertake sustainable campus measures will be taken up by the governing boards in October 2008. Included is the creation of a summer environmental institute, enhancement of the environmental studies program, a permanent sustainability staff, and a sustainability master plan.

Sewanee has an action plan in place to reduce emissions by 10 percent and is planning for climate neutrality. Solar and wind energy are purchased through the utility service's Green Power Switch program. Fifteen percent of energy in 2007 was purchased through this program.

Dining services sources items from two local farms and a local dairy. Organic beef and pork are purchased locally and fair trade coffee is served. The Eco House composts coffee grounds and some preconsumer vegetable waste. Mugs are available in retail operations and can be reused for a discount.

The new science building addition will be LEED-certified. LEED-equivalent designs, such as green parking lot features, have been used in several new and renovated buildings since 2000. The university is committed to green building and is contemplating commitment to LEED Silver equivalency for all projects.

Wastenot is a student organization that encourages recycling on campus. Environmental Residents educate those living in the residence halls about sustainability. In addition, a sustainability handbook guide for students is distributed on campus.

The physical plant is in the process of converting its fleet to electric vehicles. In 2000, the university adopted a campus master plan that promotes a pedestrian-friendly environment. Rules have been made to limit student parking in the central campus area. A bike week was held in 2006 to encourage the use of bicycles.

The university has no known policy of disclosure of endowment holdings or its shareholder voting record.

The university aims to optimize investment return and has not made any public statements about investigating or investing in renewable energy funds or community development loan funds.

The university has not made any public statements about active ownership or a proxy voting policy.