Carbon Footprint Reduction
Note: The graph above shows the college's baseline data from FY09. Comparison data will be available in early FY13.
Climate Neutrality by 2037
Agnes Scott College’s Climate Action Plan projects 2037 as the year we will reach climate neutrality.
How Will We Do This?
First, through behavioral change and more efficient methods, we hope to aggressively reduce our use of electricity and gas. In the near future, we plan to replace some of our purchased electricity with renewable energy, most likely solar power. After implementing as many on campus reductions as possible, we will consider purchasing renewable energy credits and/or carbon offsets.
Agnes Scott sees CAP as a work in progress. Given all of the uncertainties involved—available technology, costs, budget, leadership, etc.—we plan to update the CAP annually.
The college has taken the following important steps toward climate neutrality:
Green Purchasing
The college community aspires to green purchasing—obtaining only environmentally and socially responsible materials, products and services. Currently, green purchasing at Agnes Scott includes, but is not limited to, Energy Star computer equipment, duplex printers, recycled-content paper and green cleaning products.
Recycling of Printer Supplies and Paper
Agnes Scott works with Cartridge World to ensure that all college printers receive ink and toner refills instead of throwing away used cartridges. In addition, Information Technology Services purchases a 100% post-consumer recycled paper for computers and printers.
Recycling of Cooking Oil into BioDiesel Fuel
Agnes Scott partners with the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy to repurpose all used cooking oil for use as biodiesel fuel.
LEED Certification
The college passed a resolution that strives toward LEED Silver certification or greater for all new construction and renovation. In April 2009 the college’s renovated Anna I. Young Alumnae House was reopened, designed for LEED Silver certification. A Kresge Foundation grant was received for green building planning for the renovation of Campbell Hall.
Growing Locally
We planted and harvested organic herbs from two raised-bed gardens and prepared our greenhouse for planting in 2010.
Caring for Our Natural Surroundings
While researching options for sustainably maintaining the campus landscape, we worked with the Audubon Society on a habitat plan and have taken inventory of our urban forest by documenting the type, age, size and condition of the college’s approximately 2,000 trees.