Princeton University
PAE-24: Sustainability Policy Advocacy

At the state level, Princeton University tracks legislation pertaining to renewable energy, energy efficiency, and land use initiatives that are intended to promote sustainability. We have provided direct testimony in support of efforts to increase incentives for the development of cogeneration facilities and for legislation that would permit cogenerated power to be used more efficiently and effectively. In addition, the University works with state agencies on expanding land use regulatory frameworks to accommodate advanced sustainability practices, specifically with regard to stream corridor restoration and brownfield remediation. At the local land use level, the University has mapped out a 10-year campus plan for development, and continues to work with the local municipalities on revised campus zoning to support it, so that new construction projects concentrate development in neighborhoods, enhance walkability and access to transit, and reverse negative impacts on the environment from prior development.

Over the past two years, Princeton University has organized and hosted an annual conference for K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and managers of corporate campus complexes. The 2010 conference focused on alternative energy systems for large scale use; the 2011 conference highlighted integrated storm water management and sustainable landscape design. These conferences were planned and hosted by Princeton University in an effort to share best practices and identify emerging technologies and approaches. The 2011 conference offered continuing education credits for architects, landscape architects and other design and construction professionals.