News Release: Sustainability, University News
Sep. 8, 2008
Emory Named 'Conservationist of the Year'
Emory University has been named the "2008 Distinguished Conservationist of the Year" by the Georgia Conservancy. The university will be recognized for its dedication and commitment to preserve and protect Georgia's environment during the Georgia Conservancy's 15th annual Eco-Benefete Oct. 18.
The annual award is the highest honor bestowed by the conservancy and is given in recognition of Emory's efforts to incorporate sustainability as a way to restore the global ecosystem, promote healthy living and reduce the University's impact on the surrounding environment.
"It's a great honor for Emory to be recognized in this way by the Georgia Conservancy," says Emory University President James W. Wagner. "Emory's sustainability vision is a core commitment of the University with deep roots in our culture and history. We believe that working for positive transformation in the world begins right here at home. Therefore, we try to pay heightened attention to the ways in which we grow and consume food, heat and cool our buildings, move around campus and respect the natural environment."
Emory's dedication to sustainability is seen through its initiatives to promote alternative transportation, create social equity, integrate sustainability into the curriculum, protect greenspace, conserve water and recycle waste.
Other aspects of Emory's sustainability efforts include a 100-percent alternatively fueled transportation system, 54 percent of its campus dedicated as greenspace, and the 300,00 gallons of storm water runoff collected annually and recycled for landscaping, Emory has defined itself a leader in sustainability.
Of note with the award is Emory's approach to sustainable building that has resulted in the university having the most "green" certified square footage of any campus in the nation. Two newly constructed residence halls, Few and Evans, are expected to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) gold certification which will help Emory remain the leader in this effort.
"The progress made by Emory toward its goal of becoming a national and international leader of sustainability is truly remarkable," said Jim Stokes, president of the Georgia Conservancy. "We are honored to present the University with this year's award as a way to commend Emory for its commitment to positive transformation in the world and to educate its students on ways — big and small — that we all can work to protect Georgia's environment for future generations."
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