Pittsburg State University
PAE-4: Sustainability Plan

The University Sustainability Committee including five faculty members (one from each college and one from Library Services), four department chairs, one dean, one member from Administration and Finance, one representative from Campus Life and Auxiliary Services, one representative from Enrollment Management and Student Success, the Director of Analysis, Planning and Assessment, one member from Advancement, one member from Intercollegiate Athletics, the Director of Facilities Planning, the Director of Building and Trades, the Director of Custodial and General Services, the Campus Environmental Officer and two students as well as others appointed by the President developed the plan.

Goal 6: Institutionalize environmental sustainability into all university activities including operations, teaching, learning, discovery and engagement. a. Create a sustainability governance structure and integrate into the planning model. b. Become a more climate neutral campus through energy efficiency, conservation, on-site generation and strategic procurement of clean and renewable energy. c. Reduce dependence on fossil fuels, other extracted minerals and chemical fertilizers. d. Reduce potable water use while protecting and conserving all water resources within the campus watershed. e. Implement transportation strategies that reduce fuel use, air pollution and carbon dioxide emissions. f. Encourage a local and organic closed-loop food system by observing sustainability criteria for all food purchasing, preparation and service, cleaning, waste disposal, and purchase of equipment and supplies. g. Reduce and ultimately eliminate waste streams on campus through conservation, recycling, and implementing sustainability-focused purchasing policies. h. Engage internal and external constituents through education and involvement to promote environmental sustainability in all settings. i. Provide leadership in community sustainability efforts throughout the region. j. Integrate education and research on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of sustainability as a major component of the university curriculum. k. Develop and maintain research and scholarship that supports and advances sustainability. l. Incorporate LEED design standards on all new construction and renovation projects. m. Increase the biodiversity and usable green space of the campus. n. Protect and maintain the natural campus environment through restoration, preservation, and education while enhancing the campus as a classroom.

Progress toward meeting the goals will be measured each year by comparing progress to baseline data and a report to the University Strategic Planning Committee will be made each May.