Physical Plant: Sustainability

The Physical Plant is committed to assisting the University in its goal of sustainability, which includes UP's Climate Action Plan calling for carbon neutrality by the year 2040. We have partnered with Sightlines to annually measure the University's carbon footprint by providing essential information relating to Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. The Physical Plant is an integral member of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Sustainability (PACOS), working closely with the committee in carrying out sustainable objectives.

Our tangible actions include:

• Adoption of an energy-efficient appliance procurement policy requiring purchase of Energy Star certified products in all areas for which such a rating exists.
• Purchasing a portion of our electricity from renewable sources:
  • Approximately 30% of our power comes from low-carbon hydroelectric sources.
  • Currently, 3% of our electrical use is "green electricity."
• Utilizing non-carbon using vehicles as much as possible; e.g. electric utility vehicles.
• Implementation of a campus-wide recycling program.
• Establishing a system to review and approve the placement of new campus trash and recycling containers and improving existing containers.

In everything we do, from planning through execution to completion, sustainability is paramount.