Sustainability

Operations & Facilities Management is committed to creating a more sustainable world. Our activities include practical programs to reduce the university’s environmental footprint. Collaborating with students, faculty, staff, trainees, and visitors, we promote a culture that values the environment and acts to protect it.

The Culture of Sustainability

Empowering OFMD staff through education, assignments, training, and growth opportunities is the foundation for OFMD to realize sustainability through campus design, management, stewardship, and operation of the physical resources. OFMD recognizes progress on sustainability and showcases it through staff achievement awards.

Energy and Emissions

Design and operate WashU Medicine’s energy systems and buildings to reduce university Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and continue to develop goals beyond 2020.

Sustainable Buildings and Landscapes

Become a model among peers in the sustainable design and management of WashU Medicine buildings and landscapes.

Healthy Food

Provide the campus community with healthy food that is locally and sustainably sourced.

Waste Management

Reduce chemical use and increase the diversion of solid waste from landfills.

Transportation

Maintain or exceed the current WashU Medicine profile of 47% of students, faculty and staff using modes of transportation other than single occupancy vehicles when commuting to or traveling through the medical campus.

Engagement

Funding a position to lead and coordinate sustainability activities. Regularly communicate about sustainability activity and its value to WashU Medicine, including at departmental meetings, regular operational interactions, service surveys, monthly newsletters, and targeted signage and sustainability communication. Encourage OFMD staff to contribute to and engage in the campus community, the neighborhoods that surround the campus, and their own communities.