Weber State sustainability efforts get boost with $2.4 million grant
OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University’s Sustainability Practices and Research Center has received a $2.4 million sub-award through Utah’s Beehive Emission Reduction Plan.
Part of a $74 million federal grant from the Environmental Protection Agency, the funding will help expand SPARC’s local and statewide efforts to assist residents and the community at large in reducing energy costs and carbon emissions.
SPARC will do this through a multifaceted approach that includes education, resources, and hands-on support. The center will focus on empowering community members with the tools and knowledge to make meaningful energy upgrades, especially in rural and underserved areas.
“We’re excited to take what we’ve learned here on campus and work with residents, municipalities, and small businesses to help them incorporate energy upgrades into their daily lives,” said Bonnie Christiansen, sustainability programs and engagement manager at SPARC.
Christiansen said meeting campus sustainability goals is great, but working with the broader community will take things a step further in creating a healthier planet.
Bringing WSU’s institutional sustainability efforts down to a residential level includes hiring four new staff members to handle outreach and energy navigation. Staff can help provide one-on-one support for Utahns interested in making energy-efficient, electrification, or renewable energy changes.
Key to this effort is the introduction of the SPARC Home for Sustainable Living, a demonstration house that will showcase sustainability tools and practices for the public, including heat pumps, solar energy, electrification, and more.
SPARC also plans to offer free workshops and kits that allow residents to implement changes through DIY options to improve efficiency in their homes and to lower utility costs.
Christiansen believes people are inherently motivated by doing good things for themselves and each other, and bringing together concern for the environment and economic savings creates a win-win for everyone.
Beyond energy upgrades, SPARC will also implement water conservation practices, including promoting xeriscaping and foodscaping to reduce water usage.
“People care about clean air, lower bills, and healthier homes,” said Alice Mulder, director of SPARC. “We’re here to show that sustainable living is possible and we’re excited to work with the community every step of the way.”
This grant follows closely on the heels of the UCAIR Community Partner of the Year award given May 15, which recognized SPARC’s efforts to advance sustainability throughout the state.
Ashlee Ellinwood, Marketing & Communications
- Contact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu