| Overall Rating | Gold - expired |
|---|---|
| Overall Score | 66.65 |
| Liaison | John Gardner |
| Submission Date | Nov. 27, 2019 |
| Executive Letter | Download |
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
PA-2: Sustainability Planning
| Status | Score | Responsible Party |
|---|---|---|
|
3.50 / 4.00 |
Kate
Nelson Chief Sustainability Officer Office of Sustainability |
Does the institution have a published strategic plan or equivalent guiding document that includes sustainability at a high level? :
A brief description of how the institution’s strategic plan or equivalent guiding document addresses sustainability:
The Strategic Plan sets forth UWM's Guiding Values which includes "Stewardship of resources that promote sustainability, prosperity, and equity for all in the local and global communities."
The values are listed below:
We value:
Innovation, leadership, and collaboration that fosters learning through education, scholarship and research, and public service.
Opportunities for open inquiry to support the positive transformation of individuals (students, faculty, and staff), institutions, and communities.
A caring, compassionate, and collegial community characterized by mutual respect and safety.
Diversity in all of its definitions, including who we are, how we think, and what we do.
Ethical behavior, based on integrity, accountability, and responsibility
Transparent and inclusive decision making.
Stewardship of resources that promote sustainability, prosperity, and equity for all in the local and global communities.
Pride in our institution, our unique qualities, and our vital role.
As the Strategic Plan is still in "Draft Form" we did not consider it published per AASHE guidance.
A copy of the strategic plan:
The website URL where the strategic plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have a published sustainability plan (apart from what is reported above)? :
A copy of the sustainability plan:
The website URL where the sustainability plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have a published climate action plan (apart from what is reported above)? :
A copy of the climate action plan:
The website URL where the climate action plan is publicly available:
Does the institution have other published plans that address sustainability or include measurable sustainability objectives (e.g. campus master plan, physical campus plan, diversity plan, human resources plan)? :
A list of other published plans that address sustainability, including public website URLs (if available):
Sustainability is strewn throughout the UWM 2010 Master Plan but also has its own stand-alone section, which was written as a separate plan and incorporated into the planning process and final Master Plan document.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Curriculum?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Curriculum and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Establish quality, interdisciplinary education opportunities on environmental literacy and sustainability for all undergraduate programs.
Relate multiple UWM academic programs to sustainability education at area K-12 Public and Technical Colleges (complete, ongoing-A good example is the coordinated Learn-Earn Grow program between Milwaukee Public Schools, MATC, and UWM).
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Research?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Research and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Utilize Campus operations as a laboratory for sustainable research projects (complete, ongoing-Office of Sustainability has partnered with a growing number of departments on campus to offer research projects related to sustainability, including LEED Lab projects with the School of Architecture and Alliance for Water Stewardship projects with the School of Freshwater Sciences).
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Campus Engagement?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Campus Engagement and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Increase healthy, local and organic dining options on campus at an incremental rate.
Compost ALL pre-cooked kitchen scraps by 2010 and all post-kitchen scraps by 2012 (As of 2019, met the pre-cooked objective, still working on the post-cooked objective as it is only available in 1 dining hall).
Establish environmental awareness and education for staff and students (completed-through development of the Green Office Certification).
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Public Engagement?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Public Engagement and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Work with community groups and individuals to address environmental concerns that are relevant to both the campus and surrounding community
Collaborate with the Urban Ecology Center and other area organizations on environmental awareness campaigns (complete, ongoing-Kate Nelson serves on the board of the UEC and coordinates campaigns such as Hike MKE).
Make the findings and outcomes of sustainable practices and programs utilized by UWM available to the surrounding community.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Air & Climate?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Air & Climate and the published plans in which each objective is included:
20% reduction in emissions (Sustainability Plan)
To reduce UWM emissions by 20% from the base line year of 2005 by 2020 will require multiple actions. The 2020 total emissions target (Scopes 1-3) requires a reduction from 106,308 MTeCO2 to 85,046 MTeCO2, a decrease of 21,262 MTeCO2. In support, several strategies are recommended in the Master Plan. Scope 1 Emissions Reduction Strategies Emissions sources owned and controlled by the University will be difficult to reduce as the campus grows in size. Reductions will require greater efficiency in existing facilities and operations. The following are recommended strategies to that end:
Reduce Steam Load
—through efficiency measures at several existing buildings (improve schedules, reduce outdoor air intake).
Heat pump loop for new buildings
—create a heat pump system to recover exhaust gases from the Central Plant stacks to provide heat to all new buildings proposed in the Master Plan without additional Scope 1 emissions. A low-temperature hot water loop serving the new buildings would be required to implement this system. This would increase plant efficiency by an estimated 15 percent if all new buildings are 30 percent more efficient than building code as required by EO145. The addition of circulating heat pump loop and heat pumps in buildings will, however, increase Scope 2 emissions.
Scope 2 Emissions Reduction Strategies
Electricity is delivered at a net efficiency of 25-30% and is generated with a mix of coal, natural gas, hydroelectric, nuclear, and renewable power. Scope 2 emissions can be reduced at the building level through efficiency and conservation efforts, and improvements in controls and equipment management. Performance Contracts have been utilized to assist with this opportunity.
Over the long-term, federal regulation could require utility companies to switch to lower carbon fuels thereby decreasing emissions in UWM facilities. UWM may need to consider purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECS) or Carbon Credits to achieve the desired reduction targets.
Potential reduction strategies include:
Reduce building electrical loads / increase efficiency of building operations. To offset the impact of new buildings, existing buildings will need to be more energy efficient. Strategies include energy efficient equipment and fixtures, improvements to air handling systems, operation schedules and more reliance on daylighting.
Combined Heat and Power Production – preliminary analysis indicates that use of a natural gas turbine generator combined with heat recovery for campus heating
would result in an estimated reduction of 20,000 MTeCO2 per year. (additional analysis required)
Solar Technologies
—small scale demonstration projects could reduce emissions slightly. Renewable energy credits could be purchased as last resort.
Scope 3 Emission Reduction Strategies
The majority of the Scope 3 emissions originate from commuter travel to the University or about 23% of the total. Potential reduction strategies include:
Providing more proximate or on-campus housing (700 bed residence hall is estimated to reduce Scope 3 by 730 MTeCO2 and but would increases Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 1,840 MT)
Increasing campus fleet efficiency from 22 to 40 mpg could reduce emissions by almost 50% (small number compared to campus wide emissions)
Carpooling
—only 3 percent of faculty and 6 percent of staff carpool to campus.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Buildings?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Buildings and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Within the UWM Master Plan
Design for the efficient use of energy in all new and existing
facilities and in accordance with the Division of State
Facilities Sustainable Facilities Guidelines. Apply for
LEED Certification, stressing energy effi ciency, whenever
economically feasible.
Utilize current space and land efficiently to optimize
UWM facilities and energy.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Energy?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Energy and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Energy efficiency work took place from 2009-2014 through performance contracting. The goal was reached in 2013 with a 27% reduction.
http://www4.uwm.edu/pps/Sustainability/CampusInit/performance-contracting.cfm
The objectives from the UWM Master Plan relating to energy are listed below:
--Reduce energy consumption per square foot by 20% of the fiscal year 2005 State energy report baseline (adjusted for weather) through operations and human behavior changes. Continue to reduce consumption over time in accordance with any subsequent Executive Order issued by the Governor of Wisconsin.
--Secure renewable energy sources to supply 20% of campus use by 2020, and adjust to any other goal set forth by the Governor and State of Wisconsin, through the use of, but not limited to, solar, wind and geothermal energy.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Food & Dining?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Food & Dining and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Sustainable Food Services (Sustainability Plan)
Increase healthy, local and organic dining options on campus at an incremental rate.
Create and maintain connections with local farmers, and utilize local produce and products on campus whenever possible, reflective of the season.
Educate the UWM community about the benefits of local, organic food options.
Compost all pre-cooked kitchen scraps by 2010 (complete), and all post-kitchen scraps by 2012 (in process).
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Grounds?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Grounds and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Goals:
Natural Resources / Landscapes (Sustainability Plan)
Sustain and increase the use of native and perennial
landscaping with the aim of reducing maintenance
costs over time and fostering an awareness
of Wisconsin ecology.
*In progress
Eliminate the use of all pesticides and synthetic
fertilizes, while increasing the health of campus
soil / lawns by aeration, natural compost and
seeding by 2012.
*Reached this goal in 2104
Enhance preservation strategies for Downer
Woods focusing on the management of invasive
species and encouraging the campus community
to use the Woods for passive and active education
about the environment.
*In progress
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Purchasing?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Purchasing and the published plans in which each objective is included:
These goals were set forth in the Master Plan. The Green Office Certification developed beyond this.
Recommendations:
Purchasing Policy
Purchase University materials and services based
on these sustainable factors, whenever possible,
meeting multiple qualifiers.
Durable, form of the product is suited for its function
to maximize its lifetime.
Product is made from pre/post consumer or
industrial recycled material.
Product can be recycled in the end, and the campus
operations are set up to do so.
Efficiency of the product or machinery will save
money by utilizing less water or energy over its
lifetime.
Product is documented to produce significantly
less toxins and is preferably biodegradable.
Product is harvested or made within a 500 mile
radius of UWM campuses and sites.
Product is shipped with minimal packaging (consistent
with care of the product), and preferably
made of recycled and/or recyclable materials.
Purchase and monitor certified products that
meet the ENERGY STAR, Green Seal Certified,
NSF 140 2007, Green Guard, ISO 140001, and
The Forest Stewardship Council Standards,
wherever such ratings exist, and to such standards
and certifications as they evolve.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Transportation?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Transportation and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Plans originally were established in the UWM Master Plan as follows:
Double alternative transportation journeys to the
campus through incentives, community partnerships
and resource adjustments by 2020, relative
to a 2008 baseline.
Develop campus, community and multi-county
strategy and programs to encourage the use of
alternative transit, including, but not limited to
pedestrian, bike, bus, train and carpooling that is
relevant to all UWM sites.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Waste?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Waste and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Increase recycling rates and waste minimization
programs incrementally each year.
Find new sources for current waste via City and community
processors, as well as faculty research.
Recycle 50% of all construction and demolition
site waste on all campus remodeling and new
construction projects, effective immediately.
Increase the awareness of the UWM community with
regard to recycling logistics, services and progress.
Increase the reuse of campus furniture and equipment
by redistribution on campus, through public
sale and through donation to area non-profits.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Water?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Water and the published plans in which each objective is included:
(From the Sustainability Plan)
Reduce campus water usage by 20% through
operations and human behavior changes from a
2005 baseline by 2012. Continue to conserve and
reduce consumption incrementally each year.
Engineer and landscape for zero-stormwater discharge
from the Kenwood campus by 2020 at
the roof top and ground level.
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Diversity & Affordability?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Diversity & Affordability and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Detailed information can be found here: http://www4.uwm.edu/strategicplan/customcf/strategic_planning/v1/docs/Strategic-Plan-Draft_11-2-14.pdf
Below is information regarding the Climate of Inclusion Initiative within the Strategic Plan.
CLIMATE OF INCLUSION: Enhance and infuse diversity (in all its forms) throughout
UWM’s environment, workforce, student body, programs and activities.
Summary:
This initiative will create an environment of inclusivity leading to increased openness,
acceptance and appreciation for diversity in ideas, people, and cultures.
Strategic Goals and Targeted Outcomes
• Goal: Research Excellence
o Outcomes
▪ Community impact
• Goal: Successful Students
o Outcomes
▪ Engaged in high-quality programs
▪ International perspectives
▪ Enhanced graduation and retention
▪ Post-graduation employment and career success
• Goal: Community Engagement
o Outcomes
▪ Community partnerships
• Goal: Inclusive and Innovative Culture
o Outcomes
▪ Diverse faculty, staff and students
▪ Faculty, staff and student satisfaction and institutional pride
Actions
Incorporate diversity principles and values to expand conceptual frameworks of
knowledge and scholarship in programs
Build a vibrant climate by promoting a culture of respect and inclusion through diverse
programming
Engage diverse communities as learning and training resources for our students, faculty
and staff
Widely share accomplishments in diversity scholarship, and its innovative programs and
experiences that foster diversity
• Increase the diversity of students, faculty and staff
• Increase retention and upward mobility for employees who are members of underrepresented groups/populations
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Investment & Finance?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Investment & Finance and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address Wellbeing & Work?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address Wellbeing & Work and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Taken together, do the plan(s) reported above include measurable sustainability objectives that address other areas (e.g. arts and culture or technology)?:
A list or sample of the measurable sustainability objectives that address other areas and the published plans in which each objective is included:
Does the institution have a formal statement in support of sustainability endorsed by its governing body (e.g. a mission statement that specifically includes sustainability and is endorsed by the Board of Trustees)? :
The formal statement in support of sustainability:
UWM Guiding Values
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee faculty and staff during the 2012-2013 academic year drafted and approved the UWM Guiding Values.
We value:
-Innovation, leadership, and collaboration that fosters learning through education, scholarship and research, and public service.
-Opportunities for open inquiry to support the positive transformation of individuals (students, faculty, and staff), institutions, and communities.
-A caring, compassionate, and collegial community characterized by mutual respect and safety.
-Diversity in all of its definitions, including who we are, how we think, and what we do.
-Ethical behavior, based on integrity, accountability, and responsibility
-Transparent and inclusive decision making.
-Stewardship of resources that promote sustainability, prosperity, and equity for all in the local and global communities.
-Pride in our institution, our unique qualities, and our vital role.
The institution’s definition of sustainability (e.g. as included in a published statement or plan):
Is the institution an endorser or signatory of the following?:
| Yes or No | |
| The Earth Charter | No |
| The Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) | No |
| ISCN-GULF Sustainable Campus Charter | No |
| Second Nature’s Carbon Commitment (formerly known as the ACUPCC), Resilience Commitment, and/or integrated Climate Commitment | Yes |
| The Talloires Declaration (TD) | No |
| UN Global Compact | Yes |
| Other multi-dimensional sustainability commitments (please specify below) | --- |
A brief description of the institution’s formal sustainability commitments, including the specific initiatives selected above:
Formal commitments include Second Nature's Climate Commitment (Carbon and Resiliency) and the UN Global Compact.
The website URL where information about the programs or initiatives is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.