Washington University in St. Louis
PAE-5: Climate Plan

The primary purpose of our strategic plan for sustainable operations is to create an infrastructure that leads to a significant reduction of our greenhouse gas emissions. A few of the more high-level and long-term goals of the Plan include: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 greenhouse gas emissions levels by 2020 without purchasing carbon offsets. Work toward a natural environment that recognizes the benefits of native plants and minimizes the need to use potable water and herbicides and pesticides on our campuses Foster a culture of responsible use of natural resources and environmental sustainability on campus among staff, faculty and students. Become a leader in resource conservation and support sustainable production of energy, food and materials.

Some of the Plan's more immediate and on-going goals include: Reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing solo-occupant automobiles coming to campus by 10% by the year 2012. Reduce our impact on the food system by working with our dining service partners to develop a system for measuring and purchasing more food that is produced and distributed locally, humanely, fairly and in an ecologically sound manner. Lower our landfill impact by reducing our solid waste by 20% on the Medical Campus and 35% on the Danforth Campus by 2012. This can be achieved by decreasing waste before its arrival on campus and through increased diversion and recycling efforts across campuses. Reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and build more sustainably by achieving standards equivalent to or exceeding LEED Silver for all new construction and major renovations of existing buildings, and pursuing LEED Gold or Platinum when appropriate. Involve our community of staff, students, faculty, alumni and regional contacts in our sustainable operations efforts with continuing education. Partner with regional and national groups to expand knowledge of and access to best practices for building systems, transit and sustainable materials.