Virginia Military Institute

College Sustainability Report Card 2010

In an effort to meet an executive order from the governor of Virginia, the Virginia Military Institute passed an energy conservation policy in June 2007 calling for increased efforts to reduce energy consumption. One full-time employee spends half time on campus sustainability initiatives.

VMI is in the process of developing an energy conservation plan. The institute has ongoing energy projects to increase efficiency and reduce costs, with efforts aimed at lighting, water, heating, and cooling.

VMI is contracted with a local dairy, and purchases some organic products. Dining services offers discounts for bringing reusable cups and bags, uses some compostable to-go products, and recycles cardboard and oil. The physical plant department recycles paper and beverage containers.

Future capital projects at VMI will incorporate LEED practices and seek LEED certification.

Students at the institute participated in RecycleMania during the 2008-2009 academic year. A cadet recycling club has been established.

VMI maintains a fleet of five electric vehicles, and the master plan includes plans to increase the prevalence of pedestrian walking areas on campus.

The VMI Foundation makes neither its list of endowment holdings nor its shareholder voting record public.

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

The foundation asks that its investment managers handle the details of proxy voting; however, it reserves the right to vote.