Policy on Sustainability

As outlined in the University of Dayton Strategic Plan 2006, we will "Achieve greater efficiency through sustainable and environmentally sound practices throughout the institution." This will be accomplished by continuing to foster a collaborative learning culture that leads the community to a heightened awareness of its environmental impact. We envision The University of Dayton as a sustainable community that provides for the social and economic needs of its current and future members, while continually promoting and strengthening the University's distinctive Catholic and Marianist identity.

We currently enjoy a high quality environment and are therefore committed to maintaining, and wherever possible, to improving the quality of this environment, both for the people who live and work at the University and for the wider community.  This commitment is reflected in policies which seek to make the most effective and efficient use of all resources while encouraging each individual member of the University community to develop an ecologically sound and sustainable approach to their work and lifestyle.

Policy Objectives

• To adopt, wherever practical, methods of living and working which reduce the impact on the earth's biophysical systems.

• To make all members of the University community aware of the environmental impact as it relates to much of what they do in their daily activities.

• To collaborate with off-campus organizations, including local governments, businesses, citizen groups, agencies, and schools in cooperative efforts to provide a healthy regional environment.

Action

The University of Dayton will pursue the following programs of action:

• Monitor its use of energy and other natural resources and maximize the efficiency with which they are used. This includes eliminating unnecessary energy use and pursuing a program of energy and water conservation.

• Monitor and review, wherever practical, the acquisition, use and proper disposal of all materials utilized on campus. Preference will be given to the purchase of products and materials that will cause the least harm to the environment and which will generate the least amount of waste.

• Programs for the collection of recyclable items such as glass, paper, aluminum, plastic materials, batteries and wooden pallets will be aggressively maintained and monitored in all areas of the campus community.

• Ensure that "Green" products and cleaning materials which are biodegradable and environmentally friendly are in wide use throughout the campus. Monitor and control the use of caustic or hazardous materials.

• Promote human health and well-being by providing safe and healthy workspaces and residences, and provide improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

• The University will recognize its role as custodian of a large estate and essential part of the built environment and landscapes of the City of Dayton, and will promote positive environmental practices in fulfilling this role.

• When practical, "LEED" concepts will be utilized.

• Promote general environmental awareness and education within the community, and provide opportunities for specialist wishing to pursue the study of environmental issues and policies.