Sustainability

Going Green: What You Can Do To Help

There are many benefits to “going green,” including saving money, helping the environment, and building a better campus community.

Where to Start

Even small actions can help our campus go green. Here’s how you can make a difference:

  • Report all water leaks right away to x2282, even if you think someone else will handle it.
  • Turning off the water while brushing your teeth can save up to 10 gallons of water per day. Also, filling up a cup with water to rinse your mouth instead of filling up your hands conserves water, too.
  • Bring a reusable cup to fill up at our on-campus eateries or hydration stations. There is a hydration station located in the laundry room of Phase II. Fill up your reusable bottles to avoid single-use plastic bottles.
  • Flatten cardboard boxes before putting them in the recycling bin located in Phase I.
  • Adjust your heat

    Phase I Housing heaters:

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    After the pilot light has been lit by the Gas Company, push in and turn the knob labeled 1-5 or 1-10 to the halfway point.

    Phase II Housing heaters:

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    Adjust the dial on the thermostat in the hallway.

  • Appliances: Your refrigerator can’t cool efficiently if it’s over-packed. Make sure you leave enough room for cold air to circulate effectively.
  • Last out? Lights out! Save energy by turning off lights when you leave a room. Go further and also turn off the heat and fans when no one is home.
  • Coordinate with roommates. Share common energy-consuming electronics like TVs and fans. Connect them all to a power strip you can turn off when not at home to cut down on phantom load.
  • Need to dispose of used batteries? Turn them in to one of the collection boxes at Building A or X for recycling, instead of putting them in the trash.
  • Ride mass transit. Take the free Toro Express campus shuttle to get to and from major Metro lines instead of driving.
  • Laundry: Save money and help the environment by only washing and drying full loads.
  • Wash clothes with cold water instead of hot. Your clothes will last longer and you’ll save energy in the process. Extra tip: Don’t forget to clean the lint filter in the dryer before every load; it will save energy and your clothes will dry more effectively.
  • Spring Cleaning: Instead of throwing away things that will eventually end up in a landfill, make arrangement to have your gently used items donated.

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