Vanderbilt University plans to calculate the university’s carbon footprint this spring through a greenhouse gas emissions inventory. The inventory will determine the amount of the six greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere that comprise the “carbon footprint” from Vanderbilt in an average year, based on 2005-2007 data.
A greenhouse gas report will allow the university to establish a unique measure of its environmental impact. Vanderbilt emits greenhouse gases through many of its daily operations such as the combustion of coal, use of electricity, commuting and waste disposal.
“Conducting this inventory is an ongoing part of Vanderbilt’s commitment to a sound environmental management system that ensures the safety, health and sustainability of our campus,” said Cynthia Paschal, associate professor of biomedical engineering and radiology and chair-elect of the Faculty Senate.
Once the amount of greenhouse gas emissions, or size of the carbon footprint, is known, strategies can be developed to reduce it. This first inventory will provide a baseline to compare against future improvements in greenhouse gas emissions on campus.
Given the uncertain economic times, the report has the added benefit of identifying and quantifying potential cost-saving opportunities for the university.
“Both current and future students will be proud that our university is taking such measures to act responsibly in the face of global climate change,” said senior Brent Fitzgerald, president of SPEAR (Students Promoting Environmental Awareness and Responsibility).
The goal is to have the greenhouse gas inventory report completed by Earth Day, April 22, 2009.
Media Contact: Missy Pankake, (615) 322-NEWS
missy.pankake@vanderbilt.edu