Worcester Polytechnic Institute

At WPI, learning has always been about combining theory and practice. In today’s complex world, sustainable solutions must incorporate both of these concepts. WPI students are introduced to sustainability challenges through WPI’s two-course Great Problems … read more

At WPI, learning has always been about combining theory and practice. In today’s complex world, sustainable solutions must incorporate both of these concepts. WPI students are introduced to sustainability challenges through WPI’s two-course Great Problems Seminar (GPS), a key part of WPI's first year experience. In this course, teams of students and faculty step outside their disciplines to explore solutions to Great Problems, most of which are strongly connected to sustainability. Later in their academic career, WPI students complete an Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP), a nine-credit-hour interdisciplinary requirement involving applied research that connects science or technology with social issues and human needs. Sustainability serves as a common theme for IQPs, many of which address problems related to energy, the environment, and sustainable development. For students seeking a career in sustainability, WPI offers a BA and a minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies.

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WPI engages students and employees in sustainability through an Eco-Reps program as well as an active Student Green Team. In recent years, these groups have organized a variety of sustainability outreach programs, including a dorm … read more

WPI engages students and employees in sustainability through an Eco-Reps program as well as an active Student Green Team. In recent years, these groups have organized a variety of sustainability outreach programs, including a dorm energy challenge, a green room certification program, an annual waste audit, and a sustainability pledge drive.

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The institute's sustainability plan calls for a GHG reduction plan. This is in progress. State regulations require that WPI measure and report GHG; this is done by a third party. Smoking has been prohibited on … read more

The institute's sustainability plan calls for a GHG reduction plan. This is in progress. State regulations require that WPI measure and report GHG; this is done by a third party. Smoking has been prohibited on campus, and state regulations require that no vehicles may idle for more than 5 minutes.

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WPI has five LEED certified buildings, two of which are Gold Certified. All new construction must be LEED certifiable. Routine cleaning uses only environmentally friendly certified products. Major renovations in the past five years comprise … read more

WPI has five LEED certified buildings, two of which are Gold Certified. All new construction must be LEED certifiable. Routine cleaning uses only environmentally friendly certified products. Major renovations in the past five years comprise 366,411 sq. ft. and resulted in energy efficiency and water conservation.

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"Significant initiative over the past four years to make reduction in energy consumption for both climate control and lighting. In 2013, the Energy Sustainability Project Center was founded to match students with faculty and project … read more

"Significant initiative over the past four years to make reduction in energy consumption for both climate control and lighting. In 2013, the Energy Sustainability Project Center was founded to match students with faculty and project topics, and to coordinate corporate sponsorship in the
field of sustainable energy. WPI also worked with GreenerU to identify energy savings opportunities and execute them from 2012 to the present day. These projects include the retrocomissioning of the Rubin Campus Center and Gateway 1, as well as Alden Hall, Atwater Kent, and Morgan Hall. WPI partnered with NexAmp for a virtual net metering agreement, enabling the timely construction of a solar facility that will provide power to Central Massachusetts nonprofits at a significantly reduced cost. ".

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Chartwells, WPI contract dining service, purchases foods with zero trans fats, renewable packaging, certified humane/cage free shell eggs, rBGH free milk, social and ecological certified coffee, foods that are grown locally whenever possible, poultry and … read more

Chartwells, WPI contract dining service, purchases foods with zero trans fats, renewable packaging, certified humane/cage free shell eggs, rBGH free milk, social and ecological certified coffee, foods that are grown locally whenever possible, poultry and meats produced without the routine use of human antibiotics, is a member of the Sustainable Oceans Partnership and participates in waste reduction programs. Chartwells also offers Balanced U, a labeling system that lets people know how what they're eating contributes to sustainable eating habits.

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WPI uses Bartlett Tree Experts to manage much of its landscaping and pest control. Bartlett Tree prides itself on its integrated pest management practice and its care for the environment. Additionally, WPI has replaced annual … read more

WPI uses Bartlett Tree Experts to manage much of its landscaping and pest control. Bartlett Tree prides itself on its integrated pest management practice and its care for the environment. Additionally, WPI has replaced annual plantings with native perennial plants. A bioswale was installed in one of our parking areas to minimize pollution and silt runoff.

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WPI Task Force on Sustainability provides leadership and coordination for WPI's campus-wide efforts in energy and resource conservation and reduction in the harmful environmental impacts of our operations. The task force produces an Annual Sustainability … read more

WPI Task Force on Sustainability provides leadership and coordination for WPI's campus-wide efforts in energy and resource conservation and reduction in the harmful environmental impacts of our operations. The task force produces an Annual Sustainability Report and led the development of WPI’s 2013 Sustainability Plan, which established a series of measurable goals related to improving WPI’s sustainability performance.

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