WVU completed its first Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) report in 2021. This sustainability assessment evaluates higher education institutions on academics, operations, engagement and sustainability planning. WVU used the report as a foundation to establish benchmarks and best practices for a formal list of sustainability goals. The Sustainability Office then reviewed benchmarks for more than 20 peer institutions and collaborated with key units to develop a draft list of goals.
The Office of Sustainability sought input from stakeholders through the following efforts:
Learn about the University's initiatives to reduce waste, protect natural resources and lower emissions across campus.
WVU is committed to minimizing waste through increased recycling, composting and responsible purchasing practices. Goals in this category focus on reducing single-use plastics, improving waste diversion rates and encouraging sustainable materials in construction and procurement.
Goals for Reducing WasteSustaining WVU’s natural environment requires responsible land management and water conservation. These goals aim to enhance stormwater management, maintain tree canopy coverage, reduce water consumption and prioritize eco-friendly landscaping practices.
Goals for Protecting Land and WaterReducing WVU’s carbon footprint is a key priority. Goals in this category focus on energy efficiency, transitioning to sustainable transportation options and increasing access to plant-based dining choices to decrease overall greenhouse gas emissions.
Goals for Lowering EmissionsAlong with the Morgantown Campus, many of the sustainability goals apply to WVU Potomac State College and WVU Institute of Technology, while other goals are currently in development that are tailored to the structure and needs of the regional campuses.
Office of Sustainability
P.O. Box 6555
Morgantown, WV 26506-6555
Phone:
304.293.7916
Email:
sustainability@mail.wvu.edu
