Colleges saluted for green initiatives

Worcester, MA - It's not easy being "green"--but six Consortium institutions are leading the way by reducing carbon emissions, investing in alternative energy, incorporating recycling strategies and reducing waste.

Anna Maria College, Assumption College, Clark University, Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Worcester State College were recently recognized for their investments in going "green" by the Worcester Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Club at the New England Business Expo.

The following is a summary of green initiatives that have been undertaken at the six recognized institutions:

Anna Maria College:

As part of the Campus Climate Initiative, AMC pledges to assist in creating a climate/carbon neutral environment, meet LEED standards, or the equivalent, in all new construction and renovation, and advocate for environmentally appropriate behavior on campus and in the community.

Assumption College:

The college launched a $2.5 million energy and water-saving retrofit of 22 buildings throughout the campus that includes lighting system upgrades, water-saving measures, upgraded HVAC systems, and energy efficient insulated windows. The new Multi-Sport Stadium has an innovative lighting system that uses 40 percent less energy and reduces the "lighting spill" onto neighboring properties, protecting the evening skies. Other energy conservation measures include recycling and using recycled paper for publications.

Clark University:

Clark has signed onto the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment and has two buildings that are LEED certified--one silver and one gold. Recycling and composting programs include a successful effort to make Higgins University Center and main dining hall totally green with 100 percent of the waste either recycled or composted. Clark's partnership with National Grid will make a substantial investment in energy-saving technology throughout the campus.

Quinsigamond Community College:

The glass front and tower of the new Harrington Learning Center has incorporated tinted film into the design, dramatically reducing the amount of energy used. Automatic sensor lights have been installed throughout the entire campus conserving energy. Recycling and a dramatic reduction in paper usage have had a significant impact on the amount of waste. The faculty is bringing environmental awareness into classrooms and engaging students in sustainability and climate activities. In addition, the RideShare program reduces the number of vehicles traveling to campus.

Worcester Polytechnic Institute:

WPI has installed the city's first "living green roof" atop the new residence, East Hall. The roof provides many benefits to the WPI community, including energy conservation, reduced storm water runoff, the creation of wildlife habitats, and ongoing academic research. This facility is also on track to be the colleges' second LEED certified building. WPI also provides Zipcars to faculty, staff and students as an environmentally friendly alternative to keeping a car on campus.

Worcester State College:

The college's new administration building is on track for LEED certification with increased recycling and the pending installation of 100 KW photovoltaic equipment on the roof of the Learning Resource Center. Worcester State has also signed on to the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment.