December 7, 2009
We're currently faced with enormous challenges in the world, and as a leading research institution, I feel it is our duty to step up to these challenges.
Sustainability
Sustainability has been a popular topic since the creation of the Office of Sustainability, which was headed by Andy Sarjahani in the 2008-09 school year and Denny Cochrane during the 2009-10 school year. The office sponsored several initiatives, including going tray-less in the D2 and Shultz dining halls, installing a local foods kiosk in the Owens dining hall and hosting a “sustainability week” two years in a row.
In June 2009, the Board of Visitors approved the incorporation of 14 points into university policy regarding environmental concerns such as greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency and recycling. A major goal included pursuing LEED Silver certification, an environmental building rating system created by the U.S. Green Building Council, on all new buildings and renovations.
Related to sustainability, coal was a hot topic as the Beyond Coal group campaigned vocally for a cleaner, more renewable future without the use of coal, specifically on the Tech campus.
Content on Sustainability:
Switch from coal sooner not later
December 2, 2009
We must consider the cost to future Hokies as we look to move beyond coal.
Moving 'Beyond Coal' must be cost efficient for future students
November 30, 2009
Recently I have been hearing quite a bit from the group Beyond Coal at Virginia Tech.
Blacksburg, university strive for construction certifications
November 19, 2009
Green buildings are becoming a concrete reality as Virginia Tech and Blacksburg continue to work together in a commitment to sustainability.
Tech considers new coal plant initiatives, fuels
November 18, 2009
The use of coal as a fuel source in Virginia Tech's steam plant continues to ignite controversy and conflict.
University improves sustainability grade
November 17, 2009
Virginia Tech has seen improvement in its sustainability grade, according to a newly published report card from the Sustainability Endowments Institute.
Campus power plant generates new controversy
November 6, 2009
Coal continues to be a point of contention as groups attempt to pressure the university to use cleaner energy sources.
VP for student affairs talks campus in open forum
October 26, 2009
Last week I had the opportunity to "take the student pulse" during the first "The VP is In" session I was able to hold.