About:
At EWU we work hard to maintain our facilities, improve operating efficiencies, and promote sustainability across campus. Sustainability is incorporated into much of the work we do to keep campus running smoothly. Follow the links below to learn about how departments are implementing sustainable strategies and projects into everyday operations at EWU.
Prairie Restoration Project
This major sustainability initiative will restore 120 acres of campus land to its native “Palouse” prairie habitat. In addition to giving our students countless learning and research opportunities, the project benefits the environment for the entire region. Developed in cooperation with representatives from area Native communities, this project will create a model for boosting regional biodiversity while establishing an educational and recreational space that connects visitors to a long-lost landscape.
Custodial Services
Custodial Services has a big impact on EWU; they are responsible for keeping all of the buildings on campus clean, and the efforts they go to in order to reduce EWU’s footprint makes a big difference.
Rozell Heating and Cooling Plant
The Rozell Plant is a central building that houses the boilers and coolers that maintain the temperatures in the buildings on campus. Boiler heat is very common for universities, hospitals, and other large facilities.
Electricians and Lighting Management
The electricity we have at EWU comes largely from hydroelectric energy, as does the majority of electricity in Washington state. To learn more about Washington state’s energy production, visit U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Click here for Patterson Hall's detailed LEED scorecard.
LEED Buildings
"LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. LEED is a global rating system that offers regional approaches to environmental/building issues by utilizing local resources to help projects on the ground, wherever they are.
The EWU water tower. Photo credit Sophia Wiley.
Water and Plumbing
EWU has two wells that get water from the aquifer underground. That groundwater is pumped to the large tower (pictured above) where it is chlorinated for our safety. The water is routinely tested to ensure that it is safe to drink, and all of our water bottle fillers on campus have filters on them, ensuring that the water is safe to drink without the taste of chlorinated water.
A water bottle filling station at the PUB. Photo credit Sophia Wiley.
Recycling and Waste Management
We can reduce the amount of waste we create by reducing the conveniences in our lives. Reusing rather than purchasing disposable or single-use items makes an instant impact, and it is easy to do. Instead of using plastic bags, bring your own reusable bag. Instead of using single-use plastic, carry your reusable bottle with you. When purchasing new items, research sustainable companies and support them. Simple changes like these can help reduce your environmental impact.