51Թ’s efforts to conserve energy over the winter break saved the university $45,965 in electric and steam costs over nine days. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions during this period was equal to more than a million miles driven by an average passenger vehicle.
51Թ’s Office of Sustainability encouraged faculty, staff and building curators to shut down all appliances and electronics before leaving for winter break to help the university conserve energy. University Facilities Management also contributed to the energy conservation effort by setting back some building systems.
“This is a great example of how small efforts by each of us add up to a significant impact,” says Melanie Knowles, 51Թ’s sustainability manager. “All of us matter on this 51Թ team.”
By shutting down appliances and electronics before leaving for winter break, the university has consistently reduced costs of heating, ventilation, lighting and plug loads over the past few years.
Learn more about 51Թ’s sustainability initiatives.
If you have questions about 51Թ’s sustainability initiatives, contact Knowles at mknowle1@kent.edu or 330-672-8039.
