Hello. I'm trying to pick an environmentally friendly college and I've been wondering about the most problematic and unsustainable aspects of a college campus. Knowing them would help me know what to watch out for when I'm researching. Any insights regarding this?
College campuses, while wonderful places of learning and community, can often have elements that may not be the most sustainable. Here are four important factors you may want to consider:
1. Energy Use: Many colleges and universities have large campuses filled with buildings that require significant amounts of energy to function. This includes electricity for lights, computers, and other equipment, as well as heating and cooling systems. Some colleges have started transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, but many are still dependent on fossil fuels, which is not sustainable.
2. Waste Management: With thousands of students, faculty, and staff, a college campus can produce a significant amount of waste. This includes paper waste, food waste from dining halls, and general waste from residence halls. Some campuses have robust recycling programs and composting initiatives, but not all do. Additionally, not all campuses have effective systems in place for reducing single-use items like plastic bottles or takeout containers.
3. Transportation: Many campuses rely heavily on motorized transport, whether it’s cars, buses, or shuttles. This consumption of fuel contributes to air pollution and the release of greenhouse gases. Some colleges have established more eco-friendly transit systems such as bike-sharing programs, or electric or hybrid buses, but they remain the exception rather than the norm.
4. Water Use: Water consumption can be high in college campuses, with needs for everything from restrooms and showers to landscaping and the maintaining of athletic fields. Some institutions implement water-saving measures, but many others have room for improvement.
When researching colleges, you might look for schools that have sustainability as part of their mission, have sustainability officers working on initiatives, or have student groups dedicated to promoting sustainable practices. You might also look for colleges that participate in programs like the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) or have earned LEED certification for their buildings.
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