Sustainability concepts and practices are continually reviewed and incorporated into UMW policies and programs. A brief review of historical activities is provided below:
Snapshots
Like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, many departments and offices continue to make efforts that contribute to our overall stewardship of environmental resources. The following list is a first rough draft of some of these.
- Stafford North Building, completed in 2007, was our first LEED certified construction project. The plans for the UMW Village in the Park & Shop Center call for LEED certified facilities.
- Facilities Services is now expanding in internal ad hoc committee to include broader campus representation for planning, coordination, and communication of stewardship initiatives.
- The Fredericksburg Campus was recognized by the state in 2007 with an award for Urban Forestry.
- The Energy Performance Contract with NORESCO installed water saving devices throughout the Fredericksburg Campus in 2005-2007 resulting in over 25% water usage reduction for the campus. NORESCO also installed low energy light fixtures, occupant sensors, HVAC controls, and completed replacement of leaking condensate piping.
- The University continues to work closely with the regional bus transit service, FRED, to provide routes that serve our students and staff. UMW also provides subsidies for FRED operations.
- Thermal energy storage systems at Trinkle and Jepson Science Center reduce peak demand charges by making ice for cooling during non-peak electrical hours.
- University staff have proposed development of arboretum standards for the Fredericksburg Campus. The proposal is under administrative consideration.
- The University has updated storm water plans and maintenance to meet new standards from the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
- The Fredericksburg Central Steam (Heating) Plant has converted its backup fuel from #6 to #2 fuel oil, lowering sulfur and other particulate emissions. (Normal fuel supply is natural gas.)
- Integrated Pest Management practices are utilized to minimize chemical usage in controlling pests.
- UMW has received state approval for Nutrient Management Plans to reduce fertilizer runoff from both campuses. This is an important part of how the University is working with otter agencies of the Commonwealth to improve the health of the Chesapeake Bay.
Your comments and constructive criticism are always welcome.