California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
IN-4: Innovation 4

FRESHMAN HOUSING REQUIREMENT

In 2005-06, the University was responsible for nearly 65,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent greenhouse gases and transportation activities accounted for approximately 55% of these emissions. To this end, CPP early action in reducing emissions sought to reduce the amount of travel by instituting a 4/10 schedule over summers beginning in 2008 and by offering more hybrid classes annually.

However the CPP CAP seeks carbon neutrality by 2030 and acknowledges the significant impacts of travel on emissions as a university with a primarily commuter campus in a highly automobile-oriented urban environment. In 2005, 88% of students were commuting to campus. This unique identity of the CPP campus means the Climate Task force must think creatively in their efforts to reduce emissions. In response, and in an effort to reduce the commuting emissions, CPP instituted a new policy requiring incoming freshman to live on-campus beginning 2011. In addition the campus opted to pursue additional housing projects with the aim of further reducing the commuting population to 73% of the student body. In addition, the university altered its recruiting strategy to attract a greater share of students outside its immediate service area, thereby increasing the share of students seeking housing on or near campus.

This newly adopted freshman housing requirement showed a significant impact on student travel with only 78% of the students commuting to campus via vehicle in 2011.

http://dsa.csupomona.edu/uhs/first_yr_res_requirement.asp