Penn State: "Trash to Treasure"
George Washington University's "Green Move Out"
State University of New York at Buffalo: internal supply and equipment exchange
Vassar College's recycling program
This article sums up the state of some institutions after students move out of the dorms: http://www.heraldextra.com/content/view/222316/.
How to Green Your Dorm
Recycling and Material Exchange: Students can be responsible for move in collection of cardboard for recycling. Bottle and can receptacles, as well as paper receptacles should be present, easily accessible, and clearly labeled in all dorms.
Students can work with their college or university to establish a surplus storage area. It can serve as a place for students to swap items, or even buy items at a deeply discounted price. Some universities sell or donate surplus materials to other departments in the institution, or even sell items to the public on eBay (http://www.pts.pitt.edu/surplus/surplus.html). Finding ways to donate the unwanted or surplus materials can be a great way to develop community relationships. As mentioned above, a yard sale could help earn money to go towards charity, or help fund more green initiatives on campus.
Lighting: Work to replace all incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. Encourage students to use natural day light whenever possible. Perhaps donations or sponsorships of the endeavor could be sought to provide the swap free of charge to students. Contests or incentives can be devised to promote energy conservation in dorms.
See also Competitions.
Water: Education campaigns can be launched on water conservation practices which not only helps conserve water, but reduces energy used to heat the water. Simple measures such as reducing the time spent in the shower, turning water off while shaving or brushing teeth, and using cold water settings on washing machines can make a difference. Students can work together to create a plan to replace showerheads with more efficient models. Encourage students, faculty and staff to report any faucet leaks, make the information readily available about where to call.
Water Heater: Students can work with facilities to find out what temperature the boiler is set for, and what the recommended temperature is. Pilot a reduction in the temperature for a period of time (see if anyone notices!).
Green Dorms: Lessons learned from Commissioning LEED Certified Campus Housing |
