Sustainability

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024

Megan Maneval — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:45:22 +0000

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024 Megan Maneval Tue, 12/17/2024 - 09:45

As part of CU Boulder’s ongoing commitment to addressing climate change and reducing environmental impact, the campus launched several transformative sustainability projects over the course of the year. These initiatives not only serve as practical steps toward a more sustainable campus but also often align directly with the goals outlined in the Climate Action Plan (CAP), which was finalized in April. They will help increase energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and position the university as a leader in sustainability.

Here’s a look at five major sustainability projects introduced this year and how they will help achieve CU Boulder’s long-term environmental goals.

The addition of 4 electric Buff Buses

In a move to reduce transportation-related emissions, CU Boulder won grants to purchase four new electric buses. These buses are fully electric, replacing older diesel-powered vehicles and reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with campus transportation.

Chancellor Justin Schwartz shared, “Transportation is one of the largest contributors to our campus’s carbon footprint. By switching to electric buses, we are not only reducing emissions but also providing a cleaner, quieter and more efficient transportation option for our students, staff, faculty and visitors.”

Building efficiency projects

Improving energy efficiency in campus buildings has been a critical priority, and this year CU Boulder undertook a large-scale building efficiency project. This initiative involved retrofitting 18 buildings with energy-efficient lighting, optimizing HVAC control systems, upgrading components in the heating system and modifying water fixtures for efficiency. The upgrades will reduce energy consumption by up to 11%.

“We’re committed to transforming our physical infrastructure into more sustainable spaces,” Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Resilience Chris Ewing said. “This project not only reduces energy use but also makes our campus more comfortable for students and staff, with the added benefit of lowering operational costs in the long run.”

Geothermal grants

Thanks to two significant geothermal grants through the Colorado Energy Office, CU Boulder is studying whether geothermal energy is feasible for the campus. If successful, this renewable energy solution would help reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heating and cooling, providing a more sustainable alternative that aligns with the CAP’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by no later than 2050.

Schwartz noted, “The geothermal project represents a major step toward reducing our carbon footprint and showcases the university’s dedication to investing in long-term sustainable energy solutions. By harnessing the earth’s natural energy, we are setting a strong example for future generations of students.”

Hiring a new vice chancellor for sustainability

To further strengthen the campus’s commitment to sustainability, Schwartz announced the search for a new vice chancellor for sustainability this year. This strategic move ensures that sustainability is integrated into every facet of campus life and that sustainability goals are met in an effective, measurable way. The vice chancellor will focus on enhancing CU Boulder’s global reputation and impact as a transformative leader in sustainability.

“Our new vice chancellor for sustainability will play a key role in advancing our climate action efforts,” said Schwartz. “With this leadership in place, we will be better positioned to reach our sustainability targets and keep sustainability at the forefront of our institutional priorities.”

On-campus solar array and virtual net metering program

CU Boulder has made strides in expanding solar energy capabilities through two projects. A new solar array will be built on East Campus, which is a 1.1 megawatt (MW) ground-mounted solar array on a 2-acre site east of parking Lot 560.

In addition, the campus has enrolled in a virtual net metering solar program, which harnesses power generated off campus and, after entering the local grid, applies it to our campus portfolio to cost effectively reduce our Scope 2 carbon emissions. In partnership with Pivot Energy, the agreement involves the development of a 5 MW off-site solar array in Weld County.

The combination of on-site and off-site solar power will play a major role in the campus reduction of carbon emissions.

Looking forward: A greener future

With these projects now underway, CU Boulder is working to meet the ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals outlined in the CAP and making further investments to accelerate that progress. As Schwartz explained, “These initiatives represent just the beginning of a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship. Our sustainability efforts are not only about achieving measurable results but also about instilling a mindset of sustainability among our students, faculty and staff.”

The collective impact of these projects will be felt across campus, from the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to the development of a more resilient, energy-efficient infrastructure.

Schwartz envisions CU Boulder taking a leadership position for the state, nation and globe in advancing climate actions—as well as rising in global university rankings, which recently placed CU Boulder No. 11 in the U.S. and No. 61 in the world for sustainability. He noted he is encouraged by the enthusiasm across campus for focusing on sustainability, including the possibility of additional educational opportunities for students.

“Together, we are building a future where sustainability is at the heart of everything we do—ensuring our campus not only meets the challenges of climate change but leads the way toward a more sustainable, environmentally responsible world,” Schwartz said. “As we look ahead to the coming years, our focus will remain on continuing to innovate, collaborate and drive change, keeping sustainability at the core of our mission and working together to create a more sustainable future for all.”

In efforts to reduce the campus’s environmental impact and address the effects climate change, CU Boulder took on a number of sustainability projects this year: securing funding to add four electric buses to its fleet, studying the feasibility of geothermal energy for campus and more.

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CU Boulder secures $3.4M in funding for electric buses

Megan Maneval — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 21:07:43 +0000

CU Boulder secures $3.4M in funding for electric buses Megan Maneval Thu, 12/12/2024 - 14:07

In the ongoing march to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, CU Boulder has been awarded two separate grants totaling $3.4 million to support the expansion of the electric Buff Bus fleet. The funding, which comes from both state and federal environmental initiatives, will help reduce the campus’s carbon footprint and improve sustainable transportation options for students, faculty and staff. The four new buses will add to the four existing electric buses for a total of eight, accounting for 40% of CU Boulder’s 20-bus fleet.

“As an institution of higher learning, we have a responsibility to lead by example,” Chancellor Justin Schwartz said. “By integrating electric buses into our transportation system, we’re helping to safeguard our environment and demonstrating our commitment to our Climate Action Plan, which calls for the electrification of our entire fleet."

The first grant, valued at $1.6 million, was provided by the the Clean Fleet Enterprise Clean Fleet Vehicle and Technology Grant Program, which is a statewide competitive application process for new fleet vehicles, vehicle conversions and clean fleet technology. This grant will go toward the purchase of two more 40-foot buses, which are expected to be in service by summer 2025.

The second grant, amounting to $1.8 million, was awarded by the Environmental Protection Agency, which supports the transition to electric vehicles nationwide as part of their mission to protect human health and the environment. This grant will help purchase two 60-foot buses, which are expected to be operational by early 2026.

Both grants will go toward the purchase of the buses, as well as the infrastructure needed to support them, such as charging stations, technician training and maintenance equipment. Once the new buses are put into service, CU Boulder will retire four diesel buses from its fleet.

The university has set ambitious goals for the next decade, including a reduction in campuswide greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. The electric bus initiative is an important component of these plans, which also include investments in additional transportation strategies, energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, sustainable building practices and waste reduction programs.

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, which will allow us to continue to advance our efforts in building a more sustainable and resilient campus,” Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Resilience Chris Ewing said. “This investment in electric buses is a key milestone for our long-term environmental strategy. It aligns with our commitment to reducing emissions and supporting green technologies that not only benefit our campus but also contribute toward the goals of our climate action plan.”

CU Boulder’s Transportation Services team will hold another bus naming contest ahead of their debut to bring attention to the electric buses and encourage students, faculty and staff to embrace cleaner transportation options.

Four new buses will add to the four existing electric buses for a total of eight, accounting for 40% of CU Boulder’s 20-bus fleet.

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CU ranked 11th for sustainability among US universities

Megan Maneval — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 17:15:56 +0000

CU ranked 11th for sustainability among US universities Megan Maneval Tue, 12/10/2024 - 10:15

QS World University Rankings has named CU Boulder as one of the top universities in the world for environmental and social impact. CU is ranked 11th in the United States and 61st in the world for sustainability in the most recent QS rankings released on Tuesday.

The QS methodology is based on university performance across three assessment categories:

Environmental Impact: Aggregating environmental sustainability, environmental education and environmental research
Social Impact: Aggregating equality, knowledge exchange, impact of education, employability and opportunities, and health and well being
Governance: Considering factors related to good governance: ethics, hiring practices, transparency, decision making, etc.

“CU Boulder has been a global leader in sustainability for many years, and I’m excited to see our faculty, staff and students earn recognition for their accomplishments,” Chancellor Justin Schwartz said. “We’re committed to investing more deeply in sustainability research, education and action efforts in the months ahead as we implement solutions on campus and across Colorado, the nation and the world.”

Through innovative research projects, interdisciplinary collaborations and a commitment to sustainable practices, CU Boulder is driving initiatives to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges. Some recent solutions-oriented research and projects include:

CU Boulder’s Climate Action Plan calls for a 50% reduction in carbon emissions (from a 2019 baseline) by 2030 and carbon neutrality by no later than 2050.

CU Boulder is one of the top universities in the world for environmental and social impact, according to the QS World University Rankings, taking 11th place in the United States and 61st place in the world for sustainability.

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Sustainability Leadership Team hears about zero-waste proposal and more

Elizabeth Lock — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 17:34:46 +0000

Sustainability Leadership Team hears about zero-waste proposal and more Elizabeth Lock Thu, 12/05/2024 - 10:34

The Campus Sustainability Leadership Team convened Wednesday, Nov. 20, to discuss the following topics:

Leadership updates

Join the Sustainable Buffs community

Share your sustainability ideas

Discussion: Chief Operating Officer Patrick O’Rourke shared that the search committee is working through the hiring process for the new vice chancellor for sustainability. The hiring committee will begin meeting candidates in December with the intention of hiring in early 2025.

O’Rourke will be leaving CU Boulder at the end of the year. Chancellor Schwartz will announce who will step into O’Rourke’s role leading the Sustainability Leadership Team in 2025.

Sustainability funding

Discussion: Associate Vice Chancellor for Public Policy Kirsten Schuchman and Senior Advisor for Sustainability and Climate Heidi Vangenderen gave an overview of the status of sustainability funding:

A subgroup of the Sustainability Leadership Team has been reviewing funding ideas at the state, federal and donor levels while also exploring how other higher education institutions are paying for sustainability-related projects.
A Masters of the Environment student and student-employee in the Office of Government and Community Engagement has identified state and federal funding opportunities that have come out of Senate Bill 230 with the recommendation that CU Boulder advocates for research funding and acts quickly on any programs or grants that may be at risk of discontinuation.
CU Boulder is preparing for its first fundraising campaign which will feature sustainability as a major campus initiative.

Zero-waste proposal

Discussion: Josh Radoff, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Specialization Lead within the Masters of the Environment program, brought forth a zero-waste proposal from the campus Sustainability Council.

The council proposes eliminating all single-use plastic from locations where CU Boulder serves food and beverages, expanding plastic film recycling and reinstating front-of-house composting through building-managed composting.

The proposal, based on a 2013 waste audit, would include a site-by-site evaluation including cost and timeline of upgrading and renovating each facility to accommodate the goal of eliminating single-use plastics.

The council would investigate the potential to eliminate or reduce single-use plastic cups and lids from cafes and encourage “bring-your-own-cup” outreach across campus. Radoff notes that we should be in the process of continual investigation to identify other ways to become a zero-waste campus.

Next steps: The Sustainability Council will vote to approve the proposal on Dec. 5, after which there will be a discussion with the Sustainability Executive Leadership Team to organize support and operationalize the strategies.

This is part of a series that covers the CU Boulder Sustainability Leadership Team (formerly known as the Sustainability Executive Council) meeting discussions and decisions. The Sustainability Leadership Team brings together decision-makers and leaders from across campus to drive action and accountability to achieve carbon neutrality, goals outlined in the Chancellor’s Call to Climate Action and the implementation of the campus Climate Action Plan.

At its November meeting, the Campus Sustainability Leadership Team received updates on sustainability funding, a zero-waste proposal and the search for a new vice chancellor for sustainability.

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Get your green holiday gift guide here

Anonymous — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:34:28 +0000

Get your green holiday gift guide here Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 12/04/2024 - 10:34

Environmental Center

The holidays can be a time of celebration and connection with friends and family, often with the tradition of exchanging gifts. Here are a few things to consider for a more affordable and sustainable holiday season.

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Tips for eating more plant-based foods

Anonymous — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 16:28:05 +0000

Tips for eating more plant-based foods Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 11/27/2024 - 09:28

Learn about the many on-campus dining options that make it easy to include more plant-based items in your diet.

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3 tips for a sustainable fall break

Megan Maneval — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:13:12 +0000

3 tips for a sustainable fall break Megan Maneval Thu, 11/07/2024 - 11:13

You can make sustainable choices this fall break that will help you save money, protect the environment and live with intention. Review these tips from the Environmental Center.

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Sustainability Executive Council changes name, reviews policies and dashboard

Megan Maneval — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:20:44 +0000

Sustainability Executive Council changes name, reviews policies and dashboard Megan Maneval Tue, 11/05/2024 - 09:20

The Campus Sustainability Executive Council convened Wednesday, Oct. 23, to discuss the following topics:

Name change

Discussion: The council agreed to change the group’s name to the Sustainability Leadership Team to reduce confusion with the Sustainability Council.

Campus energy management policy

Discussion: Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Resilience Chris Ewing provided an overview of the campus energy management policy, which currently focuses on scope 1 and 2 emissions that are generated by campus or through utility purchasing. The policy references existing campus standards and goals from documents including the Campus Master Plan, Energy Master Plan and Transportation Master Plan. This policy will put more responsibility on leaders across campus to examine their operations and identify ways to reduce energy use. There was also discussion and a recommendation to broaden the scope with the intent of it being a more overarching sustainability policy beyond scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions.

Next steps: Team members may provide comments, after which the chancellor will review and approve the policy.

Join the Sustainable Buffs community

Share your sustainability ideas

CAP dashboard

Discussion: The team received an overview of the CAP dashboard. Following an analysis of the data being used, the updated dashboard now references data from 2022 and will soon be updated with 2023 data. The CAP uses 2019 as its baseline year.

Next steps: The CAP dashboard will be released in November and will be updated annually at the beginning of each spring semester.

Miscellaneous

Discussion: Several other agenda items were discussed.

Chief Operating Officer Patrick O’Rourke updated the team on the vice chancellor for sustainability search, including the release of the position specification and a survey soliciting input from the campus community about the role.
O’Rourke also noted that Heidi VanGenderen has taken on a new role as senior advisor for sustainability and climate, reporting to Deputy Executive Vice Chancellor of Operations Jennifer McDuffie. VanGenderen is tasked with compiling the current state of sustainability on campus in preparation for the new vice chancellor.
The team received an update on the new chemistry and applied math (CHAP) building’s design and contracting process. The building is expected to achieve LEED Gold certification thanks to sustainability elements that include a more sophisticated mechanical system that maximizes conditioned air, occupancy sensors, and the incorporation of mass timber/CLT in office spaces to reduce embodied carbon.
The team also received an update on the North Boulder Creek utility project, which will bring chilled water and electricity to the under-construction Residence 1 building, tying into the campus plan of connecting to the district energy loop and the eventual transition to a low-temperature hot water system.

A presentation slide on the North Boulder Creek Utility Expansion Project, including a map of the design, that reads: “Description: Expand utility infrastructure in the North Boulder Creek neighborhood to provide utility services to Residence One and other new, future facilities identified in the 2021 Campus Master Plan (low-temperature heating hot water, chilled water and medium voltage electrical power distribution); and provide infrastructure necessary to leverage long-term campus decarbonization and resiliency plans”

This is part of a series that will cover CU Boulder Sustainability Leadership Team (formerly known as the Sustainability Executive Council) meeting agendas, discussions and decisions. The Sustainability Leadership Team brings together decision-makers and leaders from across campus to drive action and accountability to achieve carbon neutrality, goals outlined in the Chancellor’s Call to Climate Action and the implementation of the campus Climate Action Plan.

At its October meeting, what is now called the Campus Sustainability Leadership Team discussed a campus energy management policy and reviewed the Climate Action Plan dashboard.

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4 ways to conserve energy and save money

Anonymous — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 16:30:26 +0000

4 ways to conserve energy and save money Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/30/2024 - 10:30

Winter is coming, and now is a great time to prepare for the cold weather. Whether you live on or off campus, here are a few tips to save money and energy this winter.

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3 tips for a sustainable Halloween

Anonymous — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 17:56:08 +0000

3 tips for a sustainable Halloween Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 10/16/2024 - 11:56

With some planning and intention, you can make choices that protect our environment and save you money this Halloween. Get tips from the Environmental Center.

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Sustainability

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024

The addition of 4 electric Buff Buses

Building efficiency projects

Geothermal grants

Hiring a new vice chancellor for sustainability

On-campus solar array and virtual net metering program

Looking forward: A greener future

Related Articles

CU Boulder secures $3.4M in funding for electric buses

Related Articles

CU ranked 11th for sustainability among US universities

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Sustainability Leadership Team hears about zero-waste proposal and more

Leadership updates

Sustainability funding

Zero-waste proposal

Related Articles

Get your green holiday gift guide here

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Tips for eating more plant-based foods

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3 tips for a sustainable fall break

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Sustainability Executive Council changes name, reviews policies and dashboard

Name change

Campus energy management policy

CAP dashboard

Miscellaneous

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4 ways to conserve energy and save money

Off

3 tips for a sustainable Halloween

Off