Sustainability

Weber State University’s innovative financing to promote environmental sustainability received special commendation in 2012 from the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) leadership. The ACUPCC is an agreement between nearly 700 colleges and universities to promote sustainability through teaching and action.

WSU has been able to act quickly on various green projects because in 2009 its Board of Trustees granted authorization for a "drawing-account" of up to $5 million for energy-conservation projects across campus.  In all, WSU anticipates the green-revolving fund will facilitate $9 million of energy-oriented capital.

The savings have already begun with the installation of solar panels on several major buildings, upgrade of underground steam tunnels, and replacement of all interior and exterior lighting with high-efficiency fluorescent lighting. WSU's strong commitment to sustainability has yielded a carbon footprint reduction equivalent to taking 1,877 vehicles off the road while saving a total of $3.1 million in avoided utility costs over the past four years. With the aid of the revolving fund, the university is committed to a 40-percent reduction in carbon dioxide by 2027. Weber State has the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

For its efforts, WSU has been recognized by the Princeton Review, Rocky Mountain Power, the Arbor Day Foundation, and the Sierra Club.