Why Sustainability?
Our communities, state, nation and world face increasingly complex global challenges. Institutions of higher education are crucial to preparing graduates equipped to solve these problems.
Sustainability is a core value at NC State University. Successful sustainability pursues balanced, ethical solutions that are economically viable, environmentally sound and socially just so that current and future generations may thrive. As our campus integrates sustainability in its operations, academics and research, the university improves efficiency and stewardship while also developing leaders and innovations for a more sustainable future.
Our Mission
Engaging campus and community in creating a more
sustainable future.
Guiding Policies
NC State’s sustainability efforts are rooted in numerous sustainability-related policies, procedures and commitments.
CAMPUS COMMITMENTS
- Wolfpack 2030: Powering the Extraordinary, NC State’s 2021-2030 Strategic Plan
- University-wide Sustainability Policy
- Campus Sustainability Standard Operating Procedures
- Sustainability Strategic Plan, which provides a five-year comprehensive roadmap for advancing campus sustainability. Every year tactics are updated and progress is reported in NC State’s Annual Sustainability Report
OTHER COMMITMENTS
- University Sustainability Policy, 2014
- Sustainability Standard Operating Procedures, 2014
- Campus Mobility Plan, 2012
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, 2012
- Sustainability Strategic Plan, 2017
- Climate Action Plan, 2011
- Strategic Energy Management Plan, 2011
- Physical Master Plan
- Centennial Master Plan
- University Construction Guidelines
- University of North Carolina General Administration Sustainability Policy, 2009
- Energy Star Partnership, signed 2008
- American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, signed 2008
- All new construction built to LEED – Silver standards, announced spring 2008
- UNC Tomorrow: NC State Response, May 2008
- Recommendations of the NC State Environmental Sustainability Task Force, 2000
- Commitment to Environmental Sustainability-Guiding Principles, 1999
N.C. COMMITMENTS
- Session Law 2010-196(HB 1292) – reinvestment legislation for energy savings at universities, 2010
- Session Law 2007-546(Senate Bill 668) – conservation of energy and water use in state, university and community college buildings, 2007
- Session Law 2002-167 (HB 1215) – reduce water consumption in state agencies by at least 10 percent, 2002
- NC Executive Order 26 – water system protection, 2002
- NC Executive Order 156 – state government environmental sustainability, reduction in solid waste and procurement of environmentally preferable purchasing, 1998
- NC General Statute 143-58.3 – purchase of products with recycled content , 1994
Areas of Focus
A sustainable campus promotes socially just and vibrant communities, is economically responsible and conserves finite resources.
ACADEMICS AND RESEARCH
Preparing students and innovations for a more sustainable world.
Air and climate
Preserving air quality while reducing climate impacts.
energy
Accelerating campus efficiency and cost savings.
BUILDINGS
Creating an efficient, sustainable campus.
TRANSPORTATION
Propelling sustainable transportation on campus.
WATER
Preserving quantity and quality of a natural resource.
WELLNESS
Improving human well-being and quality of life.
EQUITY
Promoting social sustainability for all.
LAND USE
Minimizing our impact on nature.
WASTE
Striving for zero waste on campus.
FOOD
Promoting healthy, fresh and sustainable nutrition.
PURCHASING
Equipping campus with sustainable materials.