Sustainability at the U of M

Did you know that the University of Minnesota is one of the most sustainable campus systems in the entire country? 

Committed to sustainable and energy efficiency, the University of Minnesota is a leader in sustainable developments throughout all of its campuses around the state. For instance, in 2009, the University of Minnesota's TCF Bank Stadium on the Twin Cities campus was awarded the LEED (Leader in Energy and Environmental Design) silver certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, the standard for sustainable design. The stadium actually incorporates innovative stormwater features that reuses that water from storms to hydrate the greenery surrounding the stadium then returns it to the Mississippi River.

In addition to sustainable facilities, the University of Minnesota's It All Adds Up campaign promotes sustainable initiatives throughout our community. According the campaign website, in 2010 the University reduced its energy consumption by five percent through pledges from students and faculty, saving the University $2.25 millions dollars and the atmosphere 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions!  

As a former biology student, environmental sustainability is something I try to practice in my daily life. Are you trying to live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle as well? Check out these tips for individuals. Or, make an energy conservation pledge and help us better the environment!