Outdoor Rec Program and Student Sustainability Achieve Certification
Brad Thompson works in the ORP, the first office to become certified through the Green Office Program at USU.
Utah State University Sustainability Council recognized the first two offices to achieve certification in its new Green Office Program, Outdoor Recreation Program (ORP) and the Center for Civic Engagement and Service Learning’s Student Sustainability Office.
The program recognizes and aids offices in their efforts to create a more environmentally sustainable workplace. After being in the works for more than a year, the Sustainability Council piloted the Green Office Certification Program in select offices on the Logan campus this spring [2015].
USU now joins a number of campuses across the country that have implemented green office programs. The program encourages offices to form a “green team” of environmentally conscious employees who take action within their office. The green teams reference the Green Office Survey to evaluate their progress and choose actions and behavioral changes that save energy and resources to improve the work environment. These actions are awarded point values, and as offices reach point levels they can become Green Office Certified.
The USU ORP, Facilities, and CCESL Sustainability Office are among the first office to become involved. The ORP and the CCESL Sustainability Office have reached base level of certification and are in the process of making changes to meet “silver” certification requirements.
Offices interested in becoming involved can contact Logan Allred, the Green Office Certification Program coordinator.
About the USU Sustainability Council
The Utah State University Sustainability Council formed in 2007 after the university signed the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). The Council seeks to reduce carbon emissions in accordance with the ACUPCC as well as conserve resources and enhance quality of life by promoting sustainability in USU’s operations, academic and service missions. Members of the Council include faculty, staff, students and community members.
Contact: Logan Allred, lallred07@gmail.com
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