Sustaining UDM & the Environment

Here are some ways UDM is being environmentally sustainable.

• 100% recyclable carpet tiles have been used in several buildings. When the carpet needs to be replaced, the old carpet tiles can be recycled at no cost to UDM.
• The University is saving significant electrical energy by changing out the main electrical switchgear room with new gears and capacitors.
• By replacing incandescent bulbs to compact florescent lamps, the University has seen a 75% savings in electrical use.
• Adding solar panels on the Engineering Building helps reduce electrical needs, as well as educate students on solar energy.
• The University is converting high-use washrooms to sensor faucets to limit water consumption and reduce the spread of bacteria.
• Replacing doors with greater insulator value results in less draft and better security.
• The use of tile roofs, which have lasted 80+ years, has saved a landfill at least two conventional shingle tear offs. From 70-90% of the tiles are reused in the roofing process.
• Upgrading to more energy-efficient windows in Holden and Shiple Halls results in less draft and better secutirity.
• Moving a tree, rather than cutting it down when the tree becomes an obstacle for a project, means more oxygen and a nicer looking campus.
• The Information Technology Services department configures all computer-based systems to utilize Energy Star features (monitors and printers in sleep mode) for end-user devices.
• The recycle bin, located by Facility Operations, encourages students, faculty and staff to recycle paper by allowing them to bring their recyclables from their dorm, office or even their home.
• Information Technology Services recycles used computer equipment, which means less goes to land fills.
• Adding automatic sensors that turn off lights when there is no activity in the room means less unnecessary energy use.
• Public Safety recently purchased a fuel-efficient Smart Car for patrol on the Corktown Campus.
• Facility Operations has been purchasing Club Cars to use for various campus operations instead of full-size trucks. These vehicles save on fuel.
• Many materials that are purchased for the University are made from recycled materials.
• Many student organizations and staff members recycle on an individual basis. For example, ink jet cartridges are recycled by a group in the Chemistry Department. Some departments collect small batteries and take them to free drop-off spots in their communities.
• Repairing and replacing the heating and cooling system with more efficient parts has lowered energy use and costs.
• You may not see individual recycling bins around, but we do recycle in many ways. Our co-mingled trash is sorted and recycled at the recycling facility.

For more details on these activities, visit  http://www.udmercy.edu/facilitiesmgt/supportservices/eec/index.htm