What is Goucher Doing?

Goucher College has embarked on a far-reaching campaign to promote environmental sustainability through both its co-curricular activities and its academic programs, including a new requirement that every student complete at least one course in ecology or environmental policy.

Goucher's Facilities Management Services has pioneered the efforts to conserve energy and lessen the college's environmental impact. Among its many projects, FMS has built specialized heating and cooling plants; updated the campus’ stormwater management system; switched to integrated pest management; removed underground oil storage tanks; and installed energy efficient materials, such as fluorescent bulbs, in campus buildings.

Bon Appétit Management Company, Goucher's food services provider, has also helped bring principles of environmental sustainability and social responsibility to the college's dining halls. Bon Appétit is committed to supporting local farmers and food producers who provide organic fruits and vegetables, hormone-free diary products, and free-range meats to Goucher’s dining facilities. The company also has initiated the use of eco-friendly food containers on campus.

Goucher's Information Technology department launched its own environmental initiative this year, encouraging students to use less paper, save power, and recycle their electronic equipment.

During the next two years, the college also will institute a step-by-step plan to become climate neutral in accordance with the University Presidents Climate Commitment that Sanford J. Ungar signed in summer 2007.

Goucher's administration isn't acting alone, however. Students have been instrumental in developing projects and programs to monitor the college's recycling program, raising awareness about environmental issues, and creating a composting site and organic garden on campus.

The college understands that everyone within the Goucher community must work together to make the campus environmentally sustainable.