Temple University

College Sustainability Report Card 2010

Temple’s master plan includes a commitment to sustainability. The Sustainability Task Force has developed an Energy Star purchasing policy and is developing a climate action plan, as well as educational initiatives. The university has created an Office of Sustainability, whose director reports to the vice president for operations.

Following completion of its carbon emissions inventory, Temple has measured a 4 percent reduction in emissions between 2006 and 2008, and is aiming to achieve climate neutrality. Temple has purchased renewable energy credits to offset over 10 million kilowatt-hours of electricity. The university developed an energy conservation policy that went into effect in December of 2008, which includes indoor temperature limits, banning space heaters, turning off lights, and using compact fluorescent bulbs.

Temple’s dining services spends about $1.2 million annually on locally grown produce and dairy, representing approximately 12 percent of its budget. All seafood meets Marine Stewardship Council guidelines, and fair trade coffee is available. Temple composts some postconsumer waste and provides a discount for the use of a reusable mug. At the close of the spring 2009 semester, there was a campus-wide collection of clothing, electronics, and furniture for local charities.

Alter Hall and the Health Science Multipurpose Building both meet LEED-certified standards. Temple diverts 70 percent of nonhazardous construction waste from landfills. The university has installed motion sensor light switches, storm water retention systems, and low-flow water fixtures.

Undergraduate orientation includes sustainability information sessions, and the whole school community takes part in RecycleMania. The university employs three students who work on sustainability projects. The group Students for Environmental Action worked to expand the campus farmers market and organized an awareness campaign to remind the community to turn off lights. Students for Responsible Business has worked to make campus dining more sustainable. Students also recently founded the Temple Community Garden.

Temple’s campus fleet includes two hybrid, one electric, and twelve compressed natural gas vehicles. Students may receive a 10 percent subsidy on a public transportation pass, and shuttles transport students around campus and to local destinations. A car-sharing program with two hybrid cars is available on campus.

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.