For the fourth year, Elon is ranked among the "coolest" schools for sustainability by Sierra, the official magazine of Sierra Club.
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Elon University is ranked No. 29 on the list of “96 Cool Schools” published in Sierra’s September/October 2012 magazine, the official magazine of the Sierra Club.
Participation in the ranking is voluntary and open to all four-year undergraduate colleges and universities in the United States. Institutions participated by completing an extensive survey though an online tool.
An independent researcher scored each school’s response and ranked all of the participating schools. Survey questions focus on measurable environmental goals and achievements, with priority given to measured success. The survey includes the following categories: co-curricular, education/research, energy, transport, waste, water, purchasing, food, planning, investing and innovation.
Elon is committed to sustainability and to serving as a positive example through sustainable operations and education. The University has a Sustainability Master Plan, which guides the sustainability program. Elon has adopted LEED as the standard for new construction projects, composts yard and food waste from campus operations, operates a biofuel powered bus system and irrigates the majority of campus with collected stormwater.
A number of education and outreach programs and events are also offered such as the Eco-Reps student peer education program, POWERless residential energy competition, Creating a More Sustainable Workplace session for faculty and staff, and annual Fall Environmental Forum.
Visit the Sustainability website for more information about these initiatives and much more.