What a Green College Can Do For You
April 28, 2010 | Alicia Ostarello
Dorms are messy, tiny, hilariously fun and…energy efficient? It’s true. As the world attempts to become a greener place, colleges are starting to find ways to cut down on their carbon footprint. By demonstrating energy-saving behavior and encouraging students to incorporate green-smarts in the residence halls, universities are able to affect the next generation.
Ithaca College in New York has been boasting an Energy Star rating in two of their halls. Besides featuring “six-way zoned heating, energy-efficient boilers, digitally controlled heating systems and ample weather-stripping” (fancy ways of saying the buildings are built to be efficient, warm, and self-contained), these dorms also host a bevy of students known as “Eco-Reps,” who promote environmental awareness. Knowing their audience, these Eco-Reps flyer the inside of dorm bathrooms with “installments,” notices that offer tips to reducing energy costs and output.
The way of the green doesn’t seem to be just a fad. The Princeton Review recently published the first ever “Guide to 286 Green Colleges,” a comprehensive guide that highlights universities that show an above-average commitment to sustainability to help incoming students make informed choices about colleges. According to Clemson University chairman of Commission on Sustainability Ben Sill said, “Prospective students realize that sustainability is something that is very important for their future, and they are considering that when choosing a college. They want to go to school where being green is a priority.”
Even leaving college is turning green. Companies that produce caps and gowns have been developing graduation regalia made out of recycled bottles and that can be recycled. In a world that continues to grow, we have to learn to either change our traditions to fit what is available, or look for new ways to sustain life as we know it. The more colleges show students how to be green, the better chance there is for students to go into the real world and practice what they’ve learned.
Is being green-friendly important as you decide what college you attend?
