Sustainability at Penn State 2018-2019 Highlight Report Bowen Zheng, a nutritional sciences major, completed his undergraduate field experience at the Student Farm at Penn State. His roles included learning about food production, applying his nutrition training to develop new materials for the farm and teaching Community Supported Agriculture members and students in the dining commons about healthy eating and cooking. Image: Dennis Maney Table of Contents Message from President Barron 2 Message from Paul Shrivastava 3 Sustainable Development Goals 4 Research 5 Support for Sustainability 7 Teaching & Learning 9 Living Labs 11 Community Engagement 13 The Art of a Sustainable University 15 Student Engagement 16 Sustainability at the Stadium 17 Faculty & Staff Engagement 18 Technology Geared Toward Change 19 Operations & Energy 20-23 Sustainability Milestones at Penn State 24 Sustainability Councils 25 Your Role in Sustaining Penn State 26

On the cover: A team of researchers led by Hu Wong, professor of landscape architecture (far right), collects water samples at University Park for its project, “Greening our stormwater: using campuses as living labs for green stormwater infrastructure,” an initiative funded in Spring 2019 by the University’s Strategic Plan Seed Grant program. Image: Pamela Krewson Wertz/Penn State.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. This publication is available in alternative media on request. U.Ed. SI 20-19

2

President, The State University State Pennsylvania The President,

Eric J. Barron J. Eric

all. all.

for environment peaceful and prosperous a creates that direction a into planet the and Pennsylvania

our large geographic footprint, our global network of leaders and our core values to shift Penn State, State, Penn shift to values core our and leaders of network global our footprint, geographic large our

Thank you for your interest in Penn State and the Sustainability Institute. Together we can use use can we Together Institute. Sustainability the and State Penn in interest your for you Thank

of communities everywhere. communities of

of some of the brightest leaders and innovators in the world who can collectively improve the health health the improve collectively can who world the in innovators and leaders brightest the of some of

potential to improve the outlook of our future. More than a university, Penn State is a global network network global a is State Penn university, a than More future. our of outlook the improve to potential

individuals who comprise our student body, faculty, staff and alumni network who have the greatest greatest the have who network alumni and staff faculty, body, student our comprise who individuals

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the nation and around the world. It is the passionate and engaged engaged and passionate the is It world. the around and nation the Pennsylvania, of Commonwealth

curated by the Sustainability Institute. Still, our capacity for positive impact continues to expand in the the in expand to continues impact positive for capacity our Still, Institute. Sustainability the by curated

research, academics, engagement and operations efforts, many of which are outlined in this report report this in outlined are which of many efforts, operations and engagement academics, research,

We’re proud of the major strides Penn State has made in advancing sustainability in its its in sustainability advancing in made has State Penn strides major the of proud We’re

thriving people, and a thriving economy. economy. thriving a and people, thriving

come together from across all disciplines to address the interconnected nature of a thriving planet, planet, thriving a of nature interconnected the address to disciplines all across from together come

to diversify how we think about these challenges. In countless ways, people, programs and research research and programs people, ways, countless In challenges. these about think we how diversify to

has several dedicated institutes that foster and facilitate interdisciplinary research, which is helping helping is which research, interdisciplinary facilitate and foster that institutes dedicated several has

research, and offers nearly 100 programs focused on energy and the environment. Our university also also university Our environment. the and energy on focused programs 100 nearly offers and research,

Penn State has more than 300 individual investigators across 11 colleges working in energy energy in working colleges 11 across investigators individual 300 than more has State Penn

research into results-producing projects, and we’re just getting started. started. getting just we’re and projects, results-producing into research

Through work with academic collaborators and public-private partners, Penn State is translating translating is State Penn partners, public-private and collaborators academic with work Through

Plant, faculty, students, alumni, legislators, philanthropists, and community and business leaders. leaders. business and community and philanthropists, legislators, alumni, students, faculty, Plant,

We have been able to do this and much more through partnerships—with the Office of Physical Physical of Office the partnerships—with through more much and this do to able been have We

of the planet’s resources as a key priority. priority. key a as resources planet’s the of

faculty, help regenerate farmland, and support the Penn State Strategic Plan, which cites stewardship stewardship cites which Plan, Strategic State Penn the support and farmland, regenerate help faculty,

greenhouse gases. It will also cut our energy costs, provide research opportunities for students and and students for opportunities research provide costs, energy our cut also will It gases. greenhouse

with 25 percent of our electricity over the next 25 years, while helping us meet our goals of reducing reducing of goals our meet us helping while years, 25 next the over electricity our of percent 25 with

Pennsylvania’s history in partnership with Lightsource BP. That solar project will provide Penn State State Penn provide will project solar That BP. Lightsource with partnership in history Pennsylvania’s

This fall, we celebrated the groundbreaking for the largest solar farm in in farm solar largest the for groundbreaking the celebrated we fall, This

gas—after 160 years of using coal-fired furnaces for its heat and electricity. electricity. and heat its for furnaces coal-fired using of years 160 gas—after

steam plant. On that day, our steam plant completed the transition to natural natural to transition the completed plant steam our day, that On plant. steam

the furnaces at Penn State, and we celebrated the “last shovelful of coal” at our our at coal” of shovelful “last the celebrated we and State, Penn at furnaces the

Three years ago, I stood on a platform that was used to push coal into into coal push to used was that platform a on stood I ago, years Three

sustainable future. future. sustainable

the top issues of our day, and I’m pleased that Penn State is working for a a for working is State Penn that pleased I’m and day, our of issues top the

by solving pressing global challenges. Climate change certainly ranks among among ranks certainly change Climate challenges. global pressing solving by

In teaching, research and service, Penn State strives to impact the world world the impact to strives State Penn service, and research teaching, In Message from President Eric J. Barron J. Eric President from Message Dear Friends,

What does sustainability mean to you? While there are many definitions of sustainability, there is no single perfect definition of the term. The Sustainability Institute looks to the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the UN Agenda 2030 as a framework to prioritize our strategies. These 17 goals, outlined on the following page, encompass more than environmental issues, recognizing that “ending hunger, reducing poverty, fostering health and well being, provisioning clean food, water and energy for all, must go hand-in-hand with strategies that reduce inequality, and healthy jobs and communities – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.” This report highlights key ways Penn State is advancing sustainability in the areas of research and curriculum, student and staff engagement, community outreach, finance and business, and operations. Of course, it would not be possible to include every achievement and initiative in one single report, so the stories and examples we included can be viewed as snapshots representing many more significant achievements of Penn State’s faculty, staff and students. As you explore this report, consider the ways you contribute to a more sustainable future. The Sustainable Development Goals may reveal ways you’re currently tackling local and global challenges. Or perhaps you’ll identify opportunities to collaborate with us. Connecting people in order to bridge opportunities with solutions is a top priority for the Sustainability Institute. The need to address today’s global challenges is an urgent one, which is why the Institute is working to with Penn State colleges, campuses, and units to build a network of Sustainability Councils, detailed on page 25. The network of Sustainability Councils and Affiliates Network is continually growing, and I encourage everyone to become a part them this year. My hope is that these stories inspire you to play your own unique role in ensuring a sustainable future for Penn State, Pennsylvania and the planet.

Sincerely, Paul

Dr. Paul Shrivastava Chief Sustainability Officer, The Pennsylvania State University Director, Sustainability Institute Professor, Management & Organization, Smeal College of Business

3 The Sustainable Development Goals: A shared blueprint for peace, prosperity and a healthy planet by 2030 An Urgent Call to Action The SDGs and Penn State

“The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Much of Penn State’s Strategic Plan includes adopted by all United Nations Member States in elements that advance the Sustainable Development 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and Goals. For example, thematic elements and prosperity for people and the planet, now and foundational elements such as Enhancing Health, into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Stewarding Our Planet’s Resources, Enabling Access Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent to Education, Driving Economic Development, call for action by all countries - developed and Fostering and Embracing a Diverse World, and developing - in a global partnership. [The goals] Ensuring a Sustainable Future are all connected recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations to the SDGs. As Penn State achieves its strategic must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve goals, there is great potential to make a positive and health and education, reduce inequality, and spur immediate impact on today’s global challenges. economic growth–all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.” – United Nations, sustainabledevelopment.un.org

Penn State’s Potential for Impact Penn State’s Sustainability Institute

In a 2018 ranking of each state’s performance on the The experts at the Sustainability Institute at Penn State Sustainable Development Goals, Pennsylvania placed serve as consultants and coaches who guide and 30th out of 50 states. Moreover, PA is one of only 19 bolster sustainability efforts at the University. However, states that is currently not on track to achieve any of in order for sustainability to be fully institutionalized the 17 goals by 2030.1 at the University, leadership must take place on the unit and college level. For this reason, the Institute With a budget of $6.8 billion and a geographic supports the formation of Sustainability Councils, footprint that includes 24 campuses in Pennsylvania, explained fully on page 25, that are supported by Penn State is uniquely positioned to make a positive a dean or chancellor and charged with creating a impact on communities throughout Pennsylvania and unique charter tailored to that college’s or unit’s the SDGs. specific mission and goals. 1SDG USA. Sustainable Development Report of the United States, 2018. sdg.usa.org Research: Addressing today’s challenges with a fresh approach

The way research methods and teams work to and colleges working together to study the factors address global sustainability challenges is of impacting pollinator health and develop solutions great importance to Penn State, a top 25 research for pollinator conservation. A true collaboration, the university with research expenditures of $968 million center is supported by the Penn State College of in 2018-2019. This is especially true as we enter Agricultural Sciences and the Huck Institutes of the the Anthropocene, a period characterized as a Life Sciences and maintains partnerships with the time when the Earth and climate systems are being Pennsylvania State Beekeepers, the Penn State Master altered by human activities. Gardeners, the Penn State Horticulture Extension One specific approach to research,transdisciplinary Team and the PA Department of Agriculture’s research, is especially key Entomology Program. to advancing sustainability Transdisciplinary research: Currently, the center is in today’s world. This style the holistic co-creation of working to maximize the of research goes beyond knowledge between disciplines sustainability of utility-scale interdisciplinary research solar projects by exploring by utilizing knowledge and to solve real-world problems ways to incorporate pollinator- research from other fields friendly plants into the site to form new approaches for applying solutions to design process to better understand how plant real-world problems. Transdisciplinary research and pollinator communities can enhance the local engages individuals and community partners agricultural industry while the land is simultaneously outside of academic and research communities to being utilized to harvest solar energy. fully understand the ‘big picture’ and to identify Sustainable Climate Risk ways to make a positive impact on issues we are Management (SCRiM) is another facing today. transdisciplinary research network One example of transdisciplinary made up of 19 universities and 5 research at work at Penn State is research institutions across 6 countries The Center for Pollinator Research. and centered at Penn State. SCRiM Pollinator health is critically important works to answer the question, “What are sustainable, for our food supply and economy, scientifically sound, technologically feasible, with Pennsylvania growers obtaining economically efficient and ethically defensible climate approximately $250,000,000 in economic value from risk management strategies?” SCRiM projects cover crops where pollination increases production. Yet, a range of issues and challenges including intra- many species of pollinators have experienced huge regional equitable climate policy and developing declines in population. The Center for Pollinator and applying advanced tools for trade-off and global Research involves 30 independent faculty, including sensitivity analysis for climate risk management. researchers, educators, extension specialists and outreach coordinators from multiple departments

“Sustainability and conservation aren’t just things that happen in a nature reserve; they happen in our backyards.” –Christina Grozinger, Director of the Center for Pollinator Research “We are entering the Anthropocene, a period characterized by the alteration of Earth and climate systems by human and social activities, causing sustainability challenges at a global scale. These challenges include the food-water-energy nexus, loss of biodiversity, increasing urbanization, threats to human health and well-being, declining ocean health, socio-economic transformation, etc. In this context, transdisciplinary research on sustainability issues, especially attempts to combine the natural sciences with arts, humanities and law, is vital for solving real-world sustainability problems.”

- Dr. Paul Shrivastava, Penn State’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Director of the Sustainability Institute at Penn State

A leader in In May 2019, Forest was named a Senior Fellow maximizing of Project Drawdown, a research organization transdisciplinary committed to identifying global climate solutions. connections at “To provide useful guidance to decision makers and Penn State, Dr. policy makers, we must gather the best science from Chris Forest, all disciplines and assess what’s relevant to specific a ssociate questions or decisions that cannot be answered director of within typical core domains,” says Forest. “These SCRiM and transdisciplinary approaches must take account professor of the key elements from each domain to address of Climate the multiple objectives and needs of the wide Dynamics in range of stakeholders. These issues are often called the Department of Meteorology and Atmospheric ‘wicked problems’ because they require this broad Science, is one of many Penn State faculty members approach to problem solving.” who relies on work and research from many colleges and departments to explore causes, effects, solutions The first international conference on and predictions related to climate change. Drawdown, Research to Action: The Recently Dr. Forest, an associate of the Earth and Science of Drawdown, was hosted at Environmental Systems Institute, the Institute for Penn State in September in 2019 by the Cyber Science, and the Institutes of Energy and the Environment, worked with a team of researchers Institutes of Energy and the Environment. to find how farms across the globe, especially dairy Hundreds attended in person from around farms, could adopt beneficial management practices the globe and thousands more continue to reduce total projected global warming by up to 6%. to view the archived sessions with topics Forest is one of several Penn State faculty members that covered food, land use, materials and to contribute to key reports for the Intergovernmental waste, oceans, Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and was lead author women and girls, on a report for the U.S. Climate Change Science transportation, Program that examined the estimates of temperature electricity and the trends in the atmospheric and surface climate data. built environment.

6 In Fall 2017, the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost made funds available through seed grants to fund strategic initiatives in support of Penn State’s strategic plan. Since then, 43 strategic plan seed grants have been awarded in support of the five thematic elements of the University’s strategic plan. Many of the seed grants address priorities outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Strategic Plan Seed Grants: Examples of funded initiatives

A Systems Approach for Meeting Greening Our Stormwater Local and Global Food-Energy- focuses on using campuses as Water Nexus Challenges aims to living labs for green stormwater unite the Penn State community in infrastructure during a time when developing and testing models of stormwater pollution and flooding varied food-energy-water nexus are issues of growing global challenges in select communities in Pennsylvania concern. Using Penn State’s multi-campus and Africa to help guide interventions that network, this project creates a living laboratory promote sustainable development and foster for green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) capacity building with local and global partners. research, education and innovation and aims to transform Penn State into a national GSI leader, Employee Community Networks building community capacity in the long term at Penn State is a limited scale to implement cost-effective solutions. pilot program to create “Employee Community Network” groups, Integrated Data Systems Solutions supported by the Office of for Health Equity aims to develop Educational Equity, and to develop the capacity to access and link improvements for increased satisfaction and administrative data from different sense of belonging to enhance recruitment and collecting agencies to advance retention of diverse talent at Penn State. understanding of health disparities and provide direction for public policy in the The SoVA Studio for Sustainability Pennsylvania. and Social Action (SoVAS3A): The School of Visual Arts Studio Growing Food, Leaders and for Sustainability and Social Action Community: Expanding promotes the development Sustainable Food Systems of arts courses and minors Learning Across Commonwealth through curriculum coordination, public art Campuses extends concepts collaborations throughout the commonwealth, a learned during the development of biennial symposium and art exhibition, as well as the Sustainable Food Systems Program (SFSP) and lectures and workshops by high profile artists. Student Farm at Penn State University Park (UP) to the Beaver and Behrend campuses.

7 Looking into past and future support for sustainability

Prior to strategic plan seed grants, Penn State invested more than $875,000 into projects, coursework, service and internships related to sustainability through the Reinvention Fund, managed by the Sustainability Institute. Between 2014-2015, over 30 initiatives were launched, involving more than 80 faculty, 60 staff and

150 students. Many initiatives launched from the fund Dr. John Roe at Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park. continue to grow and thrive today. For example, the Image: Liane Roe Office of the Physical Plant continues to use a fleet of electric vehicles and a solar array, built with the in the Department of Mathematics at Penn State for help of students, to power them. Similarly, a small more than 20 years, and served as department head grant from the Reinvention Fund launched the Lion’s for five years. He was committed to promoting equity Pantry, a food pantry at University Park, and it has been for marginalized individuals and had a passion for operating since 2014, serving between 20-30 students the outdoors. John created a course, Mathematics each week. for Sustainability, asking his students: “You must take a math course. Would you rather learn the quadratic Looking ahead, a new endowment, formula, or would you rather save the planet?” the Dr. John Roe Fund for a Just and Sustainable Future in Penn State Penn State Outreach and the Sustainability Institute Outreach, was established in October at Penn State will manage the endowment, which will 2019 by Liane Roe in honor of her late support student and faculty engagement opportunities husband. John Roe was a professor geared toward integrating sustainability throughout the University.

Penn State students outside of the Lion’s Pantry Image: Penn State Education: Learning to ensure a sustainable future for all

In an ongoing effort, Penn State is prioritizing an A Minor in Sustainability Leadership infusion of sustainability concepts into the curricula of is offered to Penn State students its academic programs on every level, from those for seeking to promote environmental, first-year students to those of Ph.D. candidates. social and economic sustainability in Penn State currently offers around their personal and professional lives. 400 courses related to sustainability Administered by a University-wide across 11 colleges, many of which faculty committee, the minor provides opportunities are cross-listed between colleges. for students to develop sustainability leadership competencies through a variety of tracks. For example, The Ethics of Climate Change combines a basic introduction to the science of climate change with an overview of Tracks offered for the key ethical issues and is cross-listed with philosophy, Sustainability Leadership Minor: meteorology and religious studies. Sustainability and Food Systems In the Smeal College of Business, over 14,000 undergraduates have Humanistic Understanding of gone through a required course in Sustainability sustainability that includes critical topics such as diversity and ethics, and Educating for Sustainability 800 MBA students from across the country have participated in Smeal’s Sustainability Design for Sustainable Communities Case Competition. Smeal hired a full-time director of sustainability in 2015 and will open the Center for the Business of Sustainability in 2020 to advance efforts that integrate sustainability in business. is advancing the Sustainable Development Goals in several unique ways. World Campus has been offering quality online education to students since 1998 and by 2018 had reached an enrollment of 14,000, the second- highest of all Penn State campuses. World campus students have access to 150 degree programs from around the globe, making it possible for students to achieve their educational and professional goals regardless of their proximity to a campus or their work schedules. Many students are reducing their carbon footprint as well, by taking classes remotely, eliminating the need to commute to and from campus.

Megan McCarthy works on an outdoor art installation for her Recreation, Park, and Tourism class, Principles of Interpretive Materials. Image: Joshua Potter

9 Student competitions put sustainability to the test

Student competitions challenge students to work across disciplines and colleges to utilize the latest knowledge and technology to design and to bring to life projects that not only excel in national energy competitions, but also influence today’s energy and infrastructure industries.

Next Generation Building Solutions/Penn State student team Image: An interdisciplinary team of students Penn State won first place in the 2017-2018 Race to Zero contest for Suburban Single-Family Housing, which challenges contestants to design an affordable, net zero energy home that meets DOE’s Zero Energy Ready Home guidelines. Penn State has participated in the design competition since 2014.

An interdisciplinary team of 17 Penn State students placed first overall in the 2019 Department of Energy Collegiate Wind Competition, a contest designed to challenge Members of the 2019 Penn State Department of Energy Collegiate undergraduate students to create Wind Competition team. Image: Penn State unique solutions to complex wind energy projects, including financial analysis related to the projects. This is Penn State’s fourth victory in the competition in the last six years.

In June 2019, Penn State Behrend’s Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Club took first place in the International Supermileage Challenge, held at Eaton Corporation’s Marshall Proving Grounds test track in Michigan. For the competition, students created vehicles to achieve the highest Team of students from Penn State Behrend’s Society of Automotive possible mileage out of a single tank of high-octane Engineers Club. Image: Penn State gasoline. The Behrend vehicle traveled 3,013 miles on one gallon of gas, a new United States record.

“The Race to Zero project has been the most rewarding experience of my college career. I was able to learn about concepts outside of my field and expand myself socially and educationally.” - Sean Copeland, Race to Zero team member

10 Campus as a Wind turbine, charging station, solar home and more: The Learning and Living Sustainability Experience Center at Penn State lies on the edge of Penn State’s University Park campus Lab... and provides a living laboratory for students, faculty and the community to research and learn about sustainability. This nine-acre site A Penn State education extends far beyond is under the stewardship of the Sustainability the classroom. Living Labs provides students Institute and is home to the Community Garden, the with one-of-a-kind, hands-on, real-world learning EcoMachineTM, two wind turbines, two groves of trees experiences. Through collaboration and research, for research and the MorningStar Solar Home. The Living Labs create an educational framework for SEC offers many features for visitors to explore food, students and faculty to address University and energy, water, land and community systems. In the community challenges. Academic enhancement, 2018–2019 academic school year, the Sustainability community partnerships and engaged scholarship Experience Center hosted 885 visitors of all ages are at the forefront of what a Living Lab looks like. from a variety of schools and organizations.

Growing minds, community and food: The Student Farm at Penn State 885 is run by students, for students. The visitors farm has three main goals: to help students understand and address the to the complex issues facing our modern SEC food system, to remain rooted in community, and in to build and demonstrate a local and sustainable food system. With these goals in mind, the farm, 2018- a piece of the Sustainability Institute’s Sustainable 2019 Food Systems Program, allows students to link their classroom education with experiential learning, The stands in front of the MorningStar Solar research and community outreach. Most Penn State Home, built by students in and powered by solar energy. campuses have a student farm or community garden, Image: Penn State and food security initiatives are available at 23 Penn State campuses. Making a difference in Pennsylvania’s cities: A program of Penn State Outreach, Penn State’s City In 2019, the Semester program offers students and community members opportunities Penn State to work together in order to make a Student Farm positive impact in urban communities. City Semester sold 10,021 Pittsburgh participants gain leadership skills in pounds of addressing urban sustainability and resiliency while produce and working with one of many community partners. City Semester Philadelphia students are placed facilitated the with community partners that are working toward donation of advancing equity, inclusion, social justice and quality 25,512 pounds of life in Philadelphia’s communities. from its farm and other community farms.

Image: Penn State

11 Penn State’s newest living lab...

The largest solar project in Pennsylvania: In February 2019, Penn State and Lightsource BP announced the development of a 70-megawatt solar project that will produce 25% of the university’s electricity, state-wide, over 25 years through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Three arrays Site design proposal for the 70 MW Solar Project in Franklin of utility-scale ground mounted solar panels will County, PA. Image: Lightsource BP be spread across 500 acres in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, near Penn State’s Mont Alto campus. The project will be operational by Summer 2020. real-world experience in designing utility solar projects that help conserve the environment. Not only will the project help Penn State reach its Internships, research projects and tours at goal by 2020 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions the solar sites will enrich student’s learning by 35% from 2005 levels, it will also serve as a living experiences while maximizing the sustainability laboratory for Penn State students and community of the utility-scale solar projects in a way that members looking to explore and develop practical supports local economies and habitats.

...and one of its earliest

A unique solution for water treatment: In the 1960s, Penn State began researching the land application of wastewater after issues with wastewater disposal methods that negatively impacting stream health. The research led to the development and implementation of a ‘living filter’ to process some of its wastewater more sustainably. Corn Irrigation at Penn State's "Living Filter" Image: Emily Woodward/Penn State The living filter is a 600-acre area of land located about 2.5 miles from the University Park campus center. Wastewater from Penn State is treated The Office of the Physical Plant has sponsored and then land applied, where it naturally filters over $200,000 per year of research at the through plants, soil and rocks before recharging the Living Filter since 1999, with over $2 million for regional water table. Over 500 million gallons of impact studies related to crop management, water are recycled each year. With the living filter in forest management and effects on birds, small operation, there has been no direct discharge from mammals, reptiles and invertebrates. Many the wastewater treatment plant to a surface stream postgraduate students have earned their masters since 1983. and/or Ph.D. with living filter research.

12 Community Engagement: Connecting unique perspectives with shared goals

Sustainable Communities Collaborative (SCC)

The Sustainable Communities Collaborative (SCC), a program of the Sustainability Institute, connects University Park faculty, students and staff with community organizations to address sustainability challenges through an engaged, collaborative effort. Each project is a facilitated effort between faculty, students, community leaders and the Sustainability Institute working together to support thriving, healthy The Sustainable Communities Collaborative pairs Penn State classes with community organizations to solve problems and build lasting communities. Below are highlights from just four of partnerships. Image: Jon Blauvelt 88 projects from the 2018-2019 academic year.

Arts Festival Succession Plan Alternative Energy Sources For Class: Penn State University Park LER Augmentative Devices (NRG/ Goal 460 with Tom Hogan Zero) Partner: Central Pennsylvania Festival of Class: Penn State Hazleton ENGR 490 the Arts with Joseph Ranalli and Will Yourey Partner: Anthracite Region Center for Project: Students created a succession plan for the Independent Living non-profit organization responsible for the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts and First Night State Project: Assistive technology empowers individuals College events which draw thousands of visitors to with disabilities to live independently. However, State College each year. The succession plan outlines technological solutions often require access to how operations can continue successfully for the electrical power to function. This project focused small non-profit should a key team member become on designing a solution that can provide power unexpectedly unavailable. Students inventoried to critical communication technologies, such as volunteer positions and job descriptions and made augmentative communication devices, during recommendations to build a repository for volunteer electrical blackouts. This project not only explored information, feedback and data. new tools and their applications available to disabled communities, but also identified the need and opportunities that exist within special communities.

“The Arts Festival staff enjoyed the experience of working with students studying Human Resources Management as we started to wrestle with the idea of Succession Planning, both for our small staff and also for the dedicated core team of volunteers who handle critical functions of the festival in about fifteen different areas. What we learned from both the Penn State students and our own volunteers will help to smooth our leadership transitions as The Central PA Festival of the Arts draws 150,000 visitors to downtown State College and campus every July. Image: Penn State they come along.” - Jennifer Shuey, Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts

13 Trail Stabilization Project / Altoona WPSU Discussion Guide to Class: BE 460/466 Accompany Video: Managing Risk in with Megan Marshall a Changing Climate Partner: Blair County Planning Class: Penn State University Park CED Commission 475 with Tim Kelsey Partner: WPSU and Rob Nicholas, Project: Chimney Rocks Park, located in associate research professor, Earth & Environmental Hollidaysburg, PA, showcases panoramic views of Systems Institute the area as well as limestone rock formations shaped like spires. To access some scenic overlooks at Project: Managing Risk in a Changing Climate, a short the park and the chimney rocks, park visitors must documentary film created under the guidance of use a half-mile, steep trail that has become very the Sustainable Climate Risk Management Network uneven in some stretches due to channels that have (SCRiM), highlights how decision makers can work been created by runoff. The trail is also sometimes with researchers and the community to address the unstable in the winter and spring due to mud. challenges of climate change in and around coastal Students developed a detailed site plan, including Louisiana. Discussion materials and related resources recommended best management practices, to were needed to expand the film’s reach, and Kelsey’s minimize erosion and stabilize the trail, allowing students provided valuable tools and resources to three-season access to the overlook. The project the filmmakers for designing additional educational tied in with two existing Blair County initiatives – and outreach materials. The project made it possible promoting community wellness by improving “active to expand living” infrastructure and managing stormwater. use of the film Student work informed next steps for the planning to promote department and park management. community discussions on preparing for and responding 2018-2019 Academic Year to climate change.

924 and 88 students projects

involved in SCC during the 2018-2019 academic year

SCC is supported in part by a grant from PepsiCo. Pictured below: Students display posters describing their Sustainable Communities Collaborative projects during the 2019 Fall Sustainability Expo & Awards. Image: Penn State Julie Heffernan’s “Sky Burial,” (diptych), 2016, oil on canvas, 54 x 100 inches was on display at the in summer 2018. The art of a sustainable university

A sustainable university is a creative university. sculptures and drawings and photographs by 30 When art intersects with science, new stories are artists who collectively provided a new perspective uncovered, making it possible for individuals on the way people of all ages and backgrounds to better understand, and make more personal interact with plastic and how these interactions connections with, the environmental, social, political impact our world today and in the future. and economic factors that advance, or stand in the “When the Water Rises: Recent way of, our ability to achieve the Global SDGs. Paintings by Julie Heffernan” explored In Spring 2018, a national exhibit was relationships between people and brought to the Palmer Museum of Art the environment in an exhibit brought that resulted in historic attendance to to the Palmer during summer 2018. the museum when over 1,000 visitors Heffernan’s paintings explore colorful, per week came to experience “Plastic imaginative habitats in a universe altered drastically Entanglements: Ecology, Aesthetics, by environmental disasters, challenging visitors to Materials” and imagine how climate change is causing humankind explore humans’ to adapt on many levels. relationship to plastic through In January 2019, the Sustainability the past, present Institute launched its Intersections and future. The Film Series to bring awareness and exhibit featured a different perspective to issues 60 works, through films varying in length, style including videos, and subject matter. In Spring 2019 the series explored labor issues in partnership

Aurora Robson’s with the Center for Global Workers’ Rights while “Isla,” 2014, was the 2019-2020 series Limits of the Imagination on display during series asks viewers to see possibilities, not limits, the “Plastics when confronting seemingly daunting challenges Entanglements” exhibit at the Palmer like climate change. As of November 2019, total Museum of Art in attendance for the film screenings, which are always Spring 2018. free and open to the public, had exceeded 1,200.

15 Student Engagement: Learning and leading the (sustainable) way

Penn State students understand that they can “Being selected contribute to creating a more sustainable future long for this award before they earn a degree. While the university has gives me more been guiding graduates-to-be since 1855, today’s opportunities students are true leaders when it comes to inspiring to educate my and guiding faculty, staff and administration to community on continually strive to advance sustainability at Penn what sustainability State. entails,” said There are more than 100 student organizations Marisa. “It’s an Marisa Bufalini, award recipient. Image: honor to be that have committed to advancing one or more Penn State Sustainable Development Goals, with more than acknowledged 15 organizations highly engaged and active in for something which I’ve grown to be so passionate sustainability work, and hundreds more that touch on about.” sustainability throughout their activities. The The Penn State Council of Sustainable Penn State Student Leaders (CSL), a Sustainability Institute Sustainability Advisory Council affiliate, was founded in 2015 with helps advance Penn State’s strategic a goal to support sustainability- goals for sustainability by studying related groups across the University and researching particular issues and enhance student and faculty and making recommendations to Penn State engagement in sustainability-focused programming administration. The council is comprised of students Some initiatives led by the CSL include: with experience and interest in studying, advancing and promoting sustainability as well as appointed Sustainability Showcase Speaker Series: A weekly faculty and administrators from the Sustainability speaker series that highlights a broad range of topics Institute, Finance and Business and Student Affairs. and speakers on varying issues related to the SDGs. Paul Shrivastava and EcoCoin: A program that gives customers at stores Sam Anwalt plant on campus an option to refuse a plastic bag for their a tree on campus purchases and donate five cents to charity instead. in spring 2019 to commemorate Friday Night Lights Out: A partnership with the Sam’s Sustainability Office of the Physical plant and students to turn Leadership Tree off lights and save energy during weekends when Award from SSAC for buildings are not in use. his work to establish the EcoCoin program In Spring 2019, the CSL awarded the first-ever and service as the Student Sustainability Awards to recognize executive director “outstanding students and student organizations at of the Council of Sustainable Leaders. all Penn State campuses who demonstrate a sincere commitment to transforming Penn State into a leader the largest student-run in and living laboratory for sustainability.” THON, philanthropy in the world, raised $10,621,683 for children and families One CSL Student Sustainability Award recipient, affected by childhood cancer in Marissa Bufalini, a junior in administration of justice 2019, while also reducing the carbon at , was instrumental in starting the footprint of its events through efforts food pantry on the Beaver campus, worked as an such as sustainability and recycling education intern for the campus garden and took a leadership sessions and more effective compost methods. role in the Community Table program with the THON is working toward an 80% waste diversion Salvation Army. rate with support from its OPPerations Committee and the Sustainability Institute. 16 More than just a game... Students understand that Penn State football games and related events are an opportunity to demonstrate sustainability to thousands and go the extra mile to make the most out of them.

Penn State EcoReps are Tailgate Ambassadors is student educators for comprised of student volunteers sustainability at Penn State’s University Park who promote environmentally Campus. Through a focus on educating first year friendly tailgate practices, students in East and Pollock residence areas, especially related to recycling EcoReps communicate Penn State’s commitment to properly, prior to Penn State football games. sustainability from students’ very first day on campus.

Penn State EcoReps help the President’s Box Students involved with Penn State Homecoming achieve zero-waste during home football games. weekend prioritize sustainability through several Pictured above: Dr. Barron and wife, Molly, with goals and initiatives to help the event reach a goal of EcoReps during the 2019 season (Image: Penn 80% diversion rate from landfill, such as Recycle Your State). Float Day the day after the homecoming parade (Image: Penn State).

Applicants from the Smeal College of Business Students help NFL and the Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management program in the College of Health fans go green and Human Development were selected for the trip, which was made possible by grant funding Last April, 21 Penn State students traveled to the from Penn State’s Student Engagement Network 2019 NFL Draft in Nashville, Tennessee, to help and PepsiCo, and support from the Sustainability visitors reduce waste and promote sustainability Institute. through the NFL Environmental Program. Over the course of three days, students interacted directly with fans and provided guidance as they disposed of their trash. Some stood beside trash bins to help fans sort their composting, recycling and waste, while others roamed the event and handed out pins and hats to individuals who were spotted recycling properly. “I enjoyed people’s pleasant reactions when caught recycling more than anything,” said Penn State student Devin Nowacki. “I believe we made an impact on many people’s lives, and I look forward to using all that I’ve learned as I further my knowledge and career.”

Image: Penn State 17 Faculty & Staff Engagement: Working together to make a positive impact

Penn State staff and faculty are Faculty, staff and students can also voluntarily form continually being challenged to Green Teams to take specific actions to help their transform what and how students college, department or building operate in efficient, learn during a time when change innovative and healthy ways. is the only constant. Today, guiding future leaders takes more than the As a way for Penn State status quo, it requires a personal commitment to Commonwealth Campuses to sustainable solutions and a willingness to lead by exchange success stories and tackle example. challenges related to sustainability, The Sustainability Institute developed the Sustainability Institute hosts annual the Green Paws program to offer a Commonwealth Sustainability simple, yet effective, way for faculty Forums. During the forums, colleagues gather and staff to learn how to use resources to participate in hands-on workshops, discussion efficiently in the office while earning groups and speaker presentations to gain new a Green Paws Office Certification for ideas about incorporating sustainability into their their efforts. In December 2018, Penn State New operations, academics and student and staff Kensington became the first Penn State campus to engagement efforts. complete all levels of the Green Paws program. As of spring 2019, faculty, staff and students with a strong commitment to advancing sustainability at Penn State can now join the Sustainability Institute Affiliate Program, which recognizes and supports individuals with a dedicated commitment to sustainability.

“The Sustainability Institute recognizes that 65+ 148 Penn State has an extensive community of individuals individuals sustainability champions and doers. Through our Affiliate Program, we are seeking to 2,200 support and amplify the work of these faculty, have joined the SI individuals attended the staff and students who are developing and Affiliate Program Commonwealth implementing solutions, performing cutting- since spring 2019 Campuses edge research, creating critical artwork, Sustainability teaching or engaging in a myriad of other have participated Forums in 2019 ways with sustainability.” in the Green Paws - Dr. Peter Buckland, the Sustainability program since Institute’s academic programs manager 2010

Attendees from the 2019 Commonwealth Campus Sustainability Forum at Penn State Beaver. Image: Penn State Technology geared toward change

With the help of a little technology, Leanpath: Penn State is utilizing Leanpath, a food some lesser-known initiatives also make waste tracking system, to reduce food waste on a big impact reducing the Penn State campus. To increase awareness of food waste, community’s greenhouse gas emissions. unused food is weighed by meal preparers and diners prior to being disposed of at dining halls. Zagster Bike Share: Penn State offers a bike sharing program to students, Food waste metrics are then displayed on monitors faculty, staff and community members through at the dining halls. The program piloted in the South Zagster. The bike share offers on-demand bicycle Food District in January 2019 and, as of October, access as an affordable and healthy way to get around food waste had been reduced by 30%, saving campus. There is an annual membership fee of $25 Penn State over $160,000 and reducing its carbon per year for students, who can access 110 bikes from footprint by the equivalent of over 5,000 gallons 21 station locations throughout the University Park of gas. Leanpath will soon be implemented at campus. As of September 2019, over 50,000 rides had Commonwealth Campuses and all University Park been taken. dining halls. Zimride: Zimride is Penn State’s ride-matching network that matches students, faculty and staff who are going the same way to share seats in their vehicle or catch a ride. The Zimride platform is the largest web-based ride-sharing/carpooling network in North America, but the Penn State network is private, and only open to Penn State students, faculty and staff with a valid PSU access ID. Events2HVAC: The Office of the Physical Plant is utilizing software to reduce the University’s carbon footprint and energy use in classrooms and meeting rooms across campus. Events2HVAC makes it possible to proactively set a room’s HVAC controls according Image: Penn State to room schedules so that rooms are only heated and cooled when in use. After running Events2HVAC over of food saved between across 300 rooms, a 72-percent reduction in occupied Jan-Oct 2019 with time was noted. 100,000 food waste reduction tons Leanpath Progress between Jan-Oct 2019 technology FOOD WASTE AVOIDED (VALUE) FOOD WASTE AVOIDED (US TONS)

in equipment runtime 60% with Events2HVAC reduction technology

GALLONS OF GAS CONSERVED CO2 AVOIDED (US TONS)

saved through the 348,600+ Zimride program miles between fall 2016 and 2019 Operating Sustainably: Energy, Waste and Grounds

Penn State leads by example throughout its greenhouse gas emissions by 35% below a 2005 operational efforts and its commitment to reduce baseline by 2020, and by 80% below the 1990 levels greenhouse gas emissions. In 2017, Penn State by 2050. These goals also reflect Pennsylvania’s goals, signed the “We are Still In” pledge to continue signed by Gov. Wolf in January 2019, to reduce GHG meeting the United States’ responsibilities under emissions by 26% by 2025 and by 80% by 2050, the Paris Climate Accord and set a goal to reduce compared to 2005 levels.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Goals through 2050

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Energy usage is the largest contributor to Penn State’s emissions profile. Penn State has reduced its campus greenhouse gas emissions by 32% since 2005. Penn State’s carbon footprint today is the same as it was in 1987, despite growing campuses and enrollment. In addition to converting the university’s coal-fired power plant to natural gas, other significant reductions have been achieved by focusing on a foundation of energy conservation, increased efficiency, increased levels of combined heat and power (CHP), increased use of solar power, targeted renewable purchases and awareness strategies. 20 Renewable energy and energy conservation Renewables about 20% of campus electrical needs. At an average efficiency of nearly 80%, Penn State’s District Energy 70 MW Solar PPA: In 2019, Penn State system is significantly more efficient than a typical entered into a 25-year Solar PPA (Power utility power station. Purchase Agreement) with Lightsource BP. With over 150,000 solar panels Energy Conservation sited on roughly 500 acres across three locations in Franklin County near Penn State’s Mont Alto campus, Penn State focuses on energy the arrays will provide 25% of Penn State’s statewide conservation and efficiency projects purchased electricity requirements over 25 years. in building systems and utilities and has committed to a 20% reduction in 2 MW Solar PPA: A 25-year PPA with the Alternative building energy intensity by 2024 via the Department Energy Development Group (AEDG) for a 2MW on- of Energy’s Better Building Challenge. The OPP Energy site solar array located on the University Park campus Program includes a variety of initiatives, including: began operating in April 2019 and acts as a true living lab that combines operations with teaching, Energy Savings Program (ESP): The program has research and outreach opportunities. invested over $100 million with an additional $79 million in program funding slated in the current 6 MW Hydroelectric PPA: In 2013, Penn State Capital Plan. The energy funds, including financing, entered into a 10-year PPA with Mahoning Creek are recovered through the avoided utility costs over Hydroelectric Company for energy produced by a a 10-year payback period. Multiple ESP projects hydroelectric generating plant at the existing USACE have been completed at University Park and many dam on Mahoning Creek in PA. Commonwealth Campuses.

EV Charging Stations: A solar array outside the main Energy Conservation Measures (ECM): These Office of Physical Plant provides power to charge smaller scope projects, such as installing low-flow OPP’s 100% electric vehicles. Transportation Services, water fixtures and using LED lighting, have an average in collaboration with OPP, added three electric simple payback of less than five years. vehicle (EV) charging stations at the Nittany Parking Deck, the first at the University Park campus to be Continuous Commissioning (CCx) Program: available to the public. Energy and costs are saved when OPP invests in re- commissioning, retro-commissioning, and maintaining Combined Heat and Power campus buildings.

These systems At University Park, the East and West Campus Building Automation Systems (BAS): combined heat and power (CHP) plants, co- keep buildings’ climates within a specific range and generating steam and electricity, serve more than provide lighting based on occupancy schedules. 200 buildings on campus via a network of 17 miles of underground piping. Penn State’s District Energy Green Design: Penn State utilizes LEED standards to System produces 100% of campus steam needs and design and construct university facilities.

Penn State President Eric J. Barron signs a solar panel at the groundbreaking ceremony for the 70 MW solar project in Franklin County, PA. Image: Ryan Smith Productions Waste Stream Task Force The Penn State Waste Stream Task the University’s procurement, operational and solid Force was convened by David Gray, waste management decisions while also providing senior vice president for Finance and opportunity for academic engagement. Business and University Treasurer, The Waste Stream Task Force presented its report and in the spring of 2018. The Task recommendations to Penn State leadership in Fall Force is cosponsored by Charles 2019 for revising procurement policies, strategically Whiteman, dean, Smeal College of Business, and communicating and branding Penn State recycling William Sitzabee, Jr., associate vice president of and increasing advocacy for recycling and waste the Office of Physical Plant. The Task Force was reduction across the University. To see details of the charged with creating fiscally, environmentally and report and learn more about the recommendations, socially responsible goals and principles to guide visit www.wastestream.psu.edu. Grounds for Sustainability

Grounds maintenance at Penn State Penn State University Park is certified as a Bee Campus goes beyond providing a beautiful USA, Tree Campus USA, Bicycle Friendly University place to work, learn and play. Strategic, (Silver), and received four-star accreditation for environmentally friendly landscaping landscape management and operations from the creates tranquil spaces for all while Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS), reducing the urban heat island effect and received Green Star Awards from PGMS in 2010, and managing storm water. Living lab opportunities 2015, 2018 and 2019. are endless for students across a wide variety of colleges and majors.

In Spring 2018, Penn State University Park replaced 90% of its small, gas-powered lawn equipment with electric equipment. Replacing the fleet of weed trimmers, push mowers, hand-held blowers hedge trimmers, approximately sixty pieces of equipment total, resulted in a reduction of approximately 1,000 gallons of gas annually while also reducing noise pollution.

9,300 located on University Park’s core trees campus

4,460 of carbon stored by the trees, equal to annual emissions of 970 tons passenger cars

of tree cover provided by ‘urban 89.7 Composting at University Park is a closed loop system, meaning that forest’ at Penn State University Park food waste and wood waste generated on campus is made into mulch acres or compost at a facility on campus and used for landscaping projects at University Park. Image: Penn State Sustainable Operations Council

The Finance & Business Sustainable The SOC is supported by an executive board and the Operations Council (SOC) was Sustainability Institute. Members of the SOC represent founded in 2018 with the purpose of 13 different departments or units at Penn State: supporting the strategic engagement • Athletics of sustainability as a core business • Auxiliary & Business Services strategy that strengthens and • Auxiliary & Business Services accelerates the ability of Penn State Finance & (Enterprise Services) Business to provide quality service. • Corporate Controller • Faculty Senate The power of the SOC is in bringing together • Food Services diverse perspectives and operational areas of • Human Resources expertise to enhance and highlight the efforts of • Information Technology all F&B units and facilitate meaningful inter-unit • Office of the Physical Plant partnerships and engagement opportunities for • Purchasing students, faculty and staff. • Smeal College of Business • Sustainability Institute As of October 2019, Sustainable Operations Council • Transportation members were involved with over 140 projects and initiatives to advance sustainable operations at Penn State, many of which are highlighted in this report (70 MW solar project, the Waste Stream Task Force, Leanpath and Zagster).

STARS: Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System

Since 2011, sustainability are expected to improve over time in areas such efforts at Penn State as energy and curriculum, as greenhouse gas have been evaluated emissions continue to decrease and more courses and reported using connected to sustainability are added to course STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment listings for more academic majors. & Rating System developed by the Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). STARS rates sustainability performance in 64 different areas covering academics, engagement, operations and planning and administration. In its last assessment in 2017, Penn State earned a gold rating and an overall score of 67.9 out of 100, a score that has improved continually since the first report in 2011 when Penn State scored a 58.8 and earned a silver rating. The STARS report helps identify the efficacy and feasibility of potential ways to enhance sustainable development at Penn State. While the university has scored consistently high in areas such as research, water use and engagement, scores Pennsylvania State University 2017 AASHE, reports.aashe.org 23 February 22, 1855 Penn State chartered with a goal to apply Sustainability scientific principles to farming

Highlights at April 20, 1970 Penn State celebrates the planet’s first Earth Day 97,000+ 1995 Center for Sustainability students Penn State founded 2000 Green Destiny Council releases Penn1998 StatePenn IndicatorsState World Report: Campus Steps launched Toward a Sustainable University

Fall 2008 Campus Sustainability Office2009 P enncreated State Community Garden founded

2009 Penn State’s community garden Spring 2010 Environmental Studies Senior Seminar is founded forest created at Penn State Altoona + SpringFirst Gr een2010 Te Greenams Established Paws Program and Green Teams are established at Penn State September 2011 Student Spring 2011 1st Sustainability Council Sustainability Advisory Council Charter created formed Fall 2011 Penn State offers new FallSeptember 2011 Penn 2011 State Student Board Sustainability of Ad- minor in sustainability Trusteesvisory C ounciladopts formed Sustainability 692,000+ leadership Strategic Plan living alumni January 2013 Sustainability Institute January 2013 Sustainabilty Institute Established established

Fall 2013 Sustainable Fall 2013 Sustainable Communities Communities Collaborative October 2013 Sustainability Institute launches Collaborative launched October 2013 Sustainability Institute launched The Reinvention Fund to expand sustainability launches the Reinvention Fund to expand efforts at Penn State through a $700,000 sustainability efforts at Penn State investment in faculty, staff and student projects + September 2015 Council of Sustainable Leaders formed 2016 Student Farm at Penn State is September 2015 Council of established Sustainable Leaders formed 20172016 PaulAppr Shrivastavaoval of Sustainability becomes theLeadership first minor; ChiefStudent Sustainability Farm at Penn Officer State inbr eaksthe Biggr oundTen; Sustainable Communities Collaborative 27,000+ June 5, 2017 Penn State signs “We Are reaches 500 student participants Still In” pledge to continue meeting faculty and US greenhouse gas emissions targets staff August 2017 June 5, 2017under Penn the State Paris signs Accord “We Zagster bike-sharing program are still in” pledge to continue launches at Penn State University Park Fall 2017 Citymeeting Semester US gr Pittsburgheenhouse andgas August 2017 Zagster bike-sharing Philadelphiaemissions launch; underFirst round the P ofaris strategic Accord program launches at University Park seed grants offered through the Office of April 2018 The last shovel-full of coal is loaded the Executive Vice President and Provost into Penn State’s power plant as the plant converted to a lower-emissions fuel source

May 2018 EcoCoin launched to reduce the = April 2018 Last shovel-full of coal use of single-use plastic bags May 7, 2018 Commonwealth Campus goes into Penn State’s power plant May 2018 EcoCoin launched to reduce the use of Sustainability Forums launched single-use plastic bags on campus July 2018 Sustainability Institute begins May 7, 2018 Commonwealth Campus stewardship of the Sustainability Experience Center Fall 2018 Council of Student Leaders host its first Sustainability Forums launched October 2018 Sustainability Showcase Speaker Series July 2018 SustainabilitySustainable Experience Operations Center comes September 2018 Plans announced to double Councilunder Sustainability formed Institute’s Stewardship Endless December 2018 Seed grants awarded to the size of Penn State Student Farm October 2018 Sustainable potential expandOperations sustainable Council foodformed systems program to Penn State Behrend and Beaver for impact January 2019 Penn State Dining launches Leanpath to December 2018 Seed grants awarded to CWC reduceJanuary food waste 2019 Pinenn dining State halls; Dining Sam launches Mason becomesLeanPath Aprilto expand 17, 2019 sustainable First Student food systemSustainability program at first Sustainabilityto reduce foodCoordinator waste in hireddining at halls;a Commonwealth Sam Mason AwardsBehrend Ceremony and Beaver is hosted by the Council becomes 1st SustainabilityCampus atCoor Penndinator State hirBehrended at a ofApril Sustainable 17, 2019 Leaders 1st student sustainability May 2019 PennCommonwealth State Dining C reportsampus 31%at Penn reduction State Behr in foodend Augustaward given 2019 waste in South Food Districts since introducing Leanpath Sustainability Experience CenterMay 2019 reaches LeanP 885ath visitors reports in 31% its first reduction year in food Penn State Factbook, 2018, overwaste 64 in tours South Food Districts factbook.psu.edu September 2019 Groundbreaking event held to celebrate 70 MW solar project in Franklin County, PA that will provide September 6, 2019 Groundbreaking event for 25% of PennOctober State’s 2019 purchased Dr. John electricity Roe F undover for 25 ayears; Just October70 MW solar 2019 pr Dr.oject John that Roe will Fund provide for a25% Just o andf Plans announcedand to more Sustainable than double Future the in Psizeenn of State the SustainablePenn State’s Future purchased in Penn electricity State Outreach over 25 is PennOutr Stateeach isStudent established Farm established 24 Sustainability Councils & the 3 C’s

The Sustainability Institute at Penn between them all, referred to as the 3 C’s. Sustainability State supports the development of Councils are supported by the dean or chancellor, led Sustainability Councils. Councils are by an individual Chair, and charged with creating a formed at the college, campus or unit Charter that outlines goals, strategies and timeliness level and offer the flexibility and freedom for sustainable development. to approach unique challenges related to sustainability in ways that make sense for the unique This new model recognizes that sustainability cannot mission of that particular college, campus or unit. be institutionalized throughout the University from one central unit. Sustainability Councils make it possible for While each Council will develop its own strategy to colleges and units to tailor their sustainability efforts. achieve its own goals, there are some similarities

University’s strategic plan aligns with SDGs Sustainable Development Goals

PSU Unit’s strategic plan aligns with SP University’s strategic plan

Unit/College Charter aligns with unit’s Strategic Plan strategic plan

Sustainability Charter signed at unit, college or Charter Commonwealth Campus level

Sustainability Sustainability Council formed Councils with support of dean/chancellor

Sustainability Sustainability Chair/Champion Chair/Champion leads formation of Council

Current Sustainability Between Fall 2018 and 2019, nine Penn State colleges and two Commonwealth Campuses have College & Campus established Sustainability Councils, with a goal for all colleges, campuses and units to form a council in the Councils near future.

College of Engineering Penn State College of Arts & Architecture Council Chair: Rachel Brennan Council Chair: Mihyun Kang

College of Medicine College of Liberal Arts Council Chair: Sarah Bronson Council Chair: Janet Swim

College of Nursing College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Council Chair: Darlene Clark Council Chair: Tim White

Smeal College of Business Eberly College of Science Council Chair: Erik Foley Council Chair: Charles T. Anderson

College of Health and Human Development Penn State Altoona Council Chair: Carter Hunt 25 Finding your unique role in advancing sustainability at Penn State

We can improve our lives and the lives of others by The Sustainability Institute invites you to explore and taking steps large and small, every day, in a direction build your own role in advancing the 17 Sustainable toward ensuring a sustainable future for all. From Development Goals. Perhaps there are certain goals reducing our consumption of the planet’s finite that your work is connected to or you feel passionately resources, to contributing to efforts that reduce social about advancing. Regardless of your level of expertise inequalities and poverty to expanding what we know or knowledge, there is a place for you to contribute. about creating safe and just communities, there’s no better time to start than today.

Engagement Opportunities for Everyone Giving Opportunities • Sign up to receive Mainstream, the bi-weekly Those seeking to make a positive difference through enewsletter from the Sustainability Institute advancement of sustainability efforts at Penn State and • Join the SI Affiliate Program around the globe can do so through a contribution to • Attend sustainability-related events the Sustainability Institute. Contact the Institute today to discuss the many opportunities to make an impact. Engagement Opportunities for Students • Join a student organization that advances one or Partnership Possibilities more of the Sustainable Development Goals Corporate sponsorships make it possible for the • Consider whether the sustainability leadership Sustainability Institute to reach more individuals minor might be a right fit for you and sustainability goals throughout the year. Please • Understand the roles of student government contact Meghan Hoskins, Director of Operations and organizations at Penn State Partnerships at the Sustainability Institute to discuss • Dig into programs related to the Student Farm at partnership possibilities: [email protected]. Penn State and other campus gardens Connect with the Sustainability Institute: Engagement Opportunities for Faculty & Staff email: [email protected] • Join or establish a Green Team in your office web: www.sustainability.psu.edu • Lead your office in its Green Paws certification social: @sustainPSU • Connect with the Sustainability Council at your More ways at: sustainability.psu.edu/sustainPSU college, campus or unit • Request information about the Sustainability Planning Guidebook

Corporate engagement opportunities make it possible for programs of the Sustainability to reach even more individuals throughout the year. Support from PepsiCo, for example, has contributed to the continued growth and success of SI programs, including the Student Farm at Penn State and the Sustainable Communities Collaborative, as well as projects connecting students with the NFL Environmental Program mentioned on page 17 of this report. Pictured: Students host a public event at the Student Farm at Penn State. Image: Penn State Land & Water Research Building University Park, PA 16802 web: sustainability.psu.edu email: [email protected] social: @sustainPSU

A view of the Sustainability Experience Center in front of Mt. Nittany Image: Steve Tressler