Tufts University, in Medford/Somerville Massachusetts, has long been a leader in sustainability – since back before many people even knew the definition of the term. Tufts developed the first university environmental policy back in 1990 and launched the international Talloires Declaration, which is now supported by 300 academic leaders worldwide. The Talloires Declaration is a ten-point action plan for incorporating sustainability and environmental literacy in teaching, research, operations and outreach at colleges and universities.
Now, sustainability is an essential part of the university’s daily operations. The school has not only made commitments to a number of regional and international goals to reduce emissions of climate-altering gases, they’ve also incorporated a wide variety of environmentally friendly initiatives. Tufts has been named on many ‘greenest colleges’ lists including those by Grist.org, Sierra Magazine and The Daily Green.
Tufts’ environmental efforts are nearly too numerous to name. The university has a comprehensive energy efficiency and conservation program involving things like carbon offsets, light bulb exchange programs, hydro electricity, on-site solar power, steam power and occupancy sensors that automatically turn off lights when people leave the room. Check out the ‘Tufts Recycles!’ web page, which details the efforts of the school’s recycling program. Water efficiency efforts, a local and organic food movement on campus, sustainable landscaping and a fleet of green campus vehicles are just a few more examples.
Tufts University’s newest residential hall, Sofia Gordon Hall, has incorporated a large number of sustainability initiatives throughout the planning and building process – silver LEED certification is pending. The building has been designed to optimize energy performance, and is equipped with water-efficient appliances. Solar thermal and photovoltaic rooftop panels provide hot water and electricity, and the university has also purchased wind power credits in an amount equivalent to the electricity needs of Sofia Gordon Hall and the new Music Center for two years. Other green aspects of the building include low and no-VOC carpet, sealant and paint, construction waste recycling, recycled and renewable materials, storm water management and real-time monitoring of the building’s energy consumption.
Students at Tufts are given a comprehensive guide to greening up campus life, from energy usage tips to encouragement to eat less meat. The university’s Guide to Living and Working Green at Tufts includes tips and information on recycling, composting, getting around campus and even how to green your wardrobe.
Check out the details on Tufts University’s impressive green resume at the school’s sustainability page.
