Ball State University

College Sustainability Report Card 2011

Ball State University is committed to sustainability through a formal plan, and the Council on the Environment represents community members who address campus environmental issues. An Energy Star policy is currently under review, and the university purchases some environmentally preferable paper products and EPEAT-certified computers. A revolving loan fund supports efficiency projects, and a multi-tiered awards program encourages green office practices.

Ball State has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50 percent from 2007 levels by 2014 through the installation of a geothermal heating and cooling system and the cessation of burning coal on campus. Energy efficiency technologies, such as variable speed drives and efficient air handling systems, have been installed across campus. The campus also features one solar hot water system. Green IT awareness campaigns encourage energy conservation.

The university buys local food, including produce and milk, as well as some organic produce. Some seafood is purchased according to sustainability guidelines, and fair trade coffee is available at all coffee-serving locations on campus. The school offers discounts for the use of reusable bags and mugs. Postconsumer food waste is composted at some meals; all fryer and food oil is recycled; and all landscaping waste is composted.

Two buildings on campus are LEED Silver certified, and one other meets LEED criteria. Most construction waste is diverted from landfills, and one renovated building meets LEED-EB criteria. Water conservation technologies, such as low-flow showerheads and faucets, have been installed across campus.

New students are exposed to sustainability on campus through resident assistants' presentations and programs for parents and students. Ball State offers paid student sustainability internships, and students participate in RecycleMania every year to reduce waste. Student groups, such as the Emerging Green Builders, Students for a Sustainable Campus, and the Natural Resources Club, work to raise awareness of environmental issues on campus.

Ball State provides ride-matching services for carpoolers, and all members of the campus community receive free access to local public transportation with their BSU identification cards. A hybrid-electric bus fleet provides transportation around campus, and bike racks and storage sheds have been installed. The campus motor fleet includes some hybrid and flex-fuel vehicles.

The university makes a list of all holdings available only to trustees and senior administrators. A list of votes cast on proxy resolutions on a company-specific level, including the number of shares, is available only to trustees and senior administrators.

The university aims to optimize investment returns and is currently invested in renewable energy and community development funds in the areas of health care, technology, and housing.

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