Michigan State University
IC-1: Institutional Boundary

MSU is an expansive research university with staff in every county of the state and numerous agricultural resource stations and community outreach offices through MSU Extension.  For the purpose of the STARS Assessment, the geographic boundaries utilized are those of the main campus, including the north campus, south campus  and south farms.  The contiguous 5199 acres is located in East Lansing, MI just three miles east of Michigan's capital in Lansing and on the banks of the Red Cedar River.  The campus includes 566 buildings,110 with academic or instructional space; 131 for agriculture, 166 for housing and food service and 42 for athletics. Recognized as one of the most beautiful campuses in the nation, the Red Cedar traverses the campus, linking the park areas and the natural, historical feel of north campus with the newer south campus and its more rural, agricultural experimental farms. The campus has a mature collection of trees, shrubs, and woody vines that contribute to the teach, research, and outreach functions.  Given the richness of its history and demographics, as well as its proximity to the capitol region, sustainability is tantamount to the preservation of these resources for advancing knowledge and transforming lives.  

Satellite campuses and agricultural experimental stations larger than 2 hectares/5 acres are not part of the institutional boundary. MSU defines the boundary as the contiguous 5199 acres of the main campus only.

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community. As the prototype for the 69 land grant institutions, sustainability is the root of its mission.  Being the first institution of higher learning in the U.S> to teach scientific agriculture, the academic and research focus on sustainable agriculture and products is a major part of its global reach. Recognizing the importance of high-performance and leading by example, MSU prepared an Energy Transition Plan in 2012.  Several years later, the university has achieved several major projects towards its sustainable energy goals.  The outcomes and impacts of those goals are demonstrated through the data generated for this assessment and performance period.  Of particular note: It has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 30% through the elimination of coal for energy supply, converting power plant to natural gas. Even after considering the increase in building square footage and the demands from higher numbers of students, faculty, and research. Facilities also has completed a 10 year building re-commissioning program, and implemented energy conservation measures amounting to over $10 million in savings from baseline year.  The new solar carports are the largest non utility carport array in the United States and contributes 5 % of the total energy demand and 18 % of peak demand. Research in sustainability has grown as well as academic offerings and continuing education through MSU Extension.  MSU is accelerating "Moving Forward" with sustainability strategies and has added additional staff and resources.