PRP 5451 - Energy Conservation & Sustainability Policy

Document History

RATIONAL FOR POLICY

The current BU Strategic Action Plan encourages environmental awareness and responsibility. This policy identifies energy conservation as the responsibility of University faculty, staff, students, visitors, and contracted services personnel, and applies to all campus spaces: academic, administrative, residential, auxiliary, recreational, and dining services.

KEYWORDS

Sustainability Measures, Energy Conservation, Reduction, Environmental Impact, Natural Resources

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

BU is committed to a policy of constructing, operating, and utilizing campus buildings and resources in a sustainable and energy conserving manner, realizing that lowering energy costs will promote long-term budgetary and environmental stewardship. BU will lessen environmental impact and carbon footprint by taking tangible, proactive actions. Energy efficiency and sustainability must be a strong focus for University operations. All faculty, staff, students, visitors, and contracted services personnel play an active part in energy conservation measures at BU and are expected to reduce energy consumption by responsible use of lighting and other electric equipment, as well as conserving water and other natural resources. The University will strive to efficiently manage and reduce the consumption of energy in a manner that is consistent with providing an optimal learning and teaching environment. This policy was originally drafted by the Green Campus Initiative and staffed through Facilities Management, Residence Life and HOPE prior to submission to the GAC in October 2012.

POLICY

4.1. The University community will embrace the importance of this energy policy and the need for energy conservation and will support energy conservation measures.

4.2. Facility and energy operating staff will insure that energy conservation and sustainability measures are implemented.

4.3. Construction and renovation activities will be consistent with industry accepted energy guidelines and should feature energy efficient design and sustainable practices. Energy efficient building systems will be installed at the university.

4.4. The University will plan activities according to time and location schedules that provide an optimal learning environment that also maximizes energy conservation and reduces utility consumption.

4.5. The University will adopt temperature guidelines for the heating and cooling of dorms, classrooms, offices and general use/purpose spaces. Building automation controls will be employed, when feasible, to provide the minimally required amount of energy at specific times and places.

4.6. The University will adopt lighting level standards for classrooms, offices, and general use/purpose spaces. Lighting levels for security purposes will not be reduced (both interior and exterior lighting).

4.7. Faculty, Staff and Students will be educated about environmental stewardship and sustainability.

4.8. Purchasing - Energy efficient equipment, systems and appliances meeting “EPA Energy Star” designation should be purchased whenever possible.