University of Connecticut
IN-24: Innovation A

In December of 2015, President Susan Herbst encouraged the development of a tight, strategic sustainability plan with goals and clear measures for 2020. In the fall of 2016, UConn developed its 2020 Vision for Campus Sustainability & Climate Leadership, a 2-page document (linked below) encompassing a number of feasible and measurable short-term targets for the following categories: energy & buildings, waste reduction & diversion, outreach & engagement, water resources, food & dining, grounds, open space, & conservation areas, purchasing, and transportation. With an emphasis on climate action and long term sustainability, UConn will continue tracking all of these categories, each with its own specific measurable outcome. For example, the 2020 Vision includes a goal to reduce average daily potable water use by 30% by 2020 vs. the 2005 baseline average. In her “Welcome Back” email to the UConn community on January 16th, 2017, President Susan Herbst officially endorsed the 2020 Vision as a means for “continued progress and an even more sustainable future.” Meanwhile, discussion groups have been held among environmental leaders on campus, including the UConn Contingent to COP22 and a student summit of environmental organizations and involved students, to discuss the 2020 Vision and incorporate student feedback.