University of California, Merced
IN-4: Innovation 4

As a new university, UC Merced has a once-in-a-generation opportunity create a new sustainable model for campus design and construction. As part of its 6.25 million square feet development plan, the campus established an ambitious and innovative "triple zero" goal, process and implementation program that integrates building design, research and operations. While this could only be accomplished due to UC Merced's early stage of development, it does provide a national and international model for large scale educational developments in the future.

UC Merced’s Triple Zero Commitment is:

1. To consume zero net energy

UC Merced’s goal is to reach zero net energy through building efficiency and renewable energy production.

2. To produce zero landfill waste.

UC Merced’s goal is to divert from landfill all campus waste by reducing excess consumption and recycling
to the maximum extent feasible.

3. To produce zero net carbon emissions

UC Merced’s goal is to prevent as much carbon emissions as it produces

As a a result of the innovative plan, the monitoring program and processes, as the campus grows, new development will be designed, planned and sited to demonstrate innovation and minimize impacts on the environment.