News & Notes: University releases third annual sustainability report

The report grouped sustainable behavior into three categories: greenhouse gas reduction, resource conservation and research, education and civic engagement.

According to University Executive Vice President Mark Burstein, a unique feature of the University’s plan is its focus on on-campus changes, rather than, for example, carbon offsets purchased from other institutions. “We have a tremendous opportunity to use the physical campus as a testing ground for the benefit of students and researchers,” Burstein said, according to a University press release.

The report added that residential water use went down 5 percent from 2010 and that the implementation of tray-free dining has been completed in all six residential colleges, leading to a decrease in food waste, water waste and carbon emissions.

The report also noted the recent start of planning of the 5.2-megawatt solar energy field in West Windsor Township, which is expected to cover 5.5 percent of the total campus electricity needs.