University of North Dakota–Grand Forks

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

Former President Kupchella signed the Presidents Climate Commitment. Representatives from various departments have formed a standing Council on Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability.

The facilities management department has hired a graduate student to assist part-time in compiling a greenhouse gas inventory. Energy efficiency programs include lighting retrofits and the installation of variable frequency drives, heat recovery systems, and power management technology for peak and off-peak use adjustment.

The university purchases from local food manufacturers and vegan dining options are specifically labeled and available daily. A campus recycling program reduces the university's waste stream by 20 percent. During move out week, students donate items that are later sold to raise funds for student scholarships.

The university targets LEED standards for new construction. The University Place dormitory, built in 2007, was constructed to meet LEED standards. A renovation of the Energy and Environmental Research Center features sustainable design concepts.

The Ecology and Conservation Organization, the Wildlife Society, and other student organizations have participated in sustainability events. Students work with the recycling coordinator to promote recycling in the residence halls by organizing recycling competitions and creating educational posters.

The Wellness Center started a program that allows free use of shared bikes on campus. A campus shuttle provides rides to the airport and around campus. The university has been experimenting with two electric cars for maintenance vehicles. Most buildings are connected with tunnel systems or skywalks to facilitate pedestrian travel in inclement weather.

The University of North Dakota Foundation makes a list of endowment holdings available to trustees, senior administrators, and other select members of the school community.

The University of North Dakota Foundation aims to optimize investment return and is currently invested in renewable energy funds.

The university does not have the ability to vote proxies, as the entire endowment is invested in pooled funds.