DePauw's green grade improves

GREENCASTLE -- DePauw University improved a third of a letter grade in regards to its on-campus sustainability efforts, a recent survey reports.

The university received a B- on the annual College Sustainability Report Card released by Sustainable Endowments Institute; last year DePauw earned a C+.

DePauw ranks among 177 other schools that received a grade in the B range; 52 schools nationwide received an A-range grade.

The survey assesses each of the 322 participating institutions in nine categories, ranging from Climate Change and Energy to Green Building to Investment Priorities.

Greencastle sustainability commission chairman Steve Setchell said the improved grade has positive ramifications for the Greencastle community.

"I continue to appreciate DePauw student, faculty and staff efforts to create a more sustainable community both on campus and beyond," Setchell said. "As one of our largest employers and quality of life assets, DePauw is a core part of Greencastle's identity and way of life. The University's sustainability goals and aspirations are similarly important to the progress we strive to continue across our community."

Since the first edition four years ago, Report Card surveys show dramatic increases on 52 green indicators, said Mark Orlowski, executive director of the Sustainable Endowments Institute which publishes the Report Card.

"The green groundswell on campus is evident in a wide variety of energy-saving initiatives, such as sourcing food from campus farms and reducing hot water use through trayless dining," Orlowski said.

On Sept. 15, 2008, DePauw President Brian Casey signed the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment, joining 575 college and university presidents and chancellors across America who are pledging to neutralize the greenhouse gas emissions of their institutions and make environmental awareness a key component of campus life.