University Sustainability Initiative
The Center for Urban Environmental Research and Policy is advancing Loyola University Chicago's efforts to create a more sustainable university community. Through Loyola's commitment to educate responsible young adults, the University is taking steps to enhance the university environment where students, faculty and staff can carry sustainable behaviors of resource conservation into their day-to-day lifestyles on and off campus.
initiatives
Sustainable Infrastructure and Buildings
Loyola University Chicago's Facilities Management Department is leading the way in terms of the built environment with the implementation of sustainable infrastructure and buildings. Several projects currently underway include:
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Green roofs for all new construction (Mundelein Center, Information Commons, Quinlan Life Sciences Building, and Baumhart Hall).
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Semi-permeable paving material for all campus roads and pedestrian walks and use of semi-permeable artificial turf to reduce storm water runoff to city sewer system.
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Compact fluorescent, energy saving bulbs installed in all student residences and available to students free of charge.
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Solar powered flashing light stop signs.
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Battery powered service vehicles on campus.
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Implement in 2008 a reduction in the use of spray irrigation for lawns and plant materials by converting to a drip system along with plantings of drought resistant plant materials.
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Plans for a 2008 installation of solar water heating for the Halas Sports Center pool and domestic hot water, and Santa Clara residence hall for domestic hot water.
Visit Sustainable Projects for a complete listing of current and future projects at Loyola University Chicago.
Understanding the role of high-performance green buildings to reduce carbon emissions, Loyola is demonstrating commitment to sustainability with its current construction project, the Information Commons. The Commons integrates stunning architecture and engineering systems in a cutting-edge manner that will achieve 50 percent plus energy efficiency and is expected to achieve LEED Silver certification.
Sustainability in the Curriculum and the Higher Education Community
As a member of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), Loyola joins a community that is inclusive of all sectors within higher education which is committed to advancing sustainability by pursuing human and ecological health, social justice, to help secure livelihoods, and provide a better world for all generations. Collaborating with other institutions is necessary to develop partnerships and share meaningful strategies for lasting infrastructural and behavioral changes.
Cooperating on a regional level with the Illinois Green Government Coordinating Council, Loyola pledges to accomplish 10 of the 12 environmental goals outlined in the Illinois Sustainable University Compact by 2010.
Solutions to Environmental Problems (STEP)
STEP, developed by CUERP, is a new interdisciplinary, experiential learning and leadership course. The course challenges students and faculty to work together and across disciplines to advance environmental sustainability at Loyola and beyond. Students receive university credits, while developing critical leadership and environmental problem-solving skills. In addition, the School of Education is evaluating the structure of the course, its content and delivery to measure the learning outcomes of student participants. Upon completion of evaluation, a research manuscript will be submitted to an Educational journal for publication.
Photo: Students in Loyola's Biodiesel Lab.
STEP's first course is designed around the conversion of waste vegetable oil (WVO) from Loyola food services into low-emissions biodiesel which is planned for use in University vehicles and maintenance equipment. 
Students work in small groups with faculty mentors on projects related to business design and operations, production of biodiesel fuel, marketing and emissions testing.
Each project provides a real-world disciplinary experience that will contribute to and/or compliment the overall goals of producing a clean, renewable alternative to petroleum fuel.
Photo: Loyola's Biodiesel Lab, Lake Shore Campus.
Environmental Course Collaboration
At Loyola, a multitude of courses in various disciplines are offered each semester that discuss a common theme, the environment. CUERP brings the faculty and students from the courses together for an interdisciplinary collaboration to share perspectives and enhance the educational experience. Developing collaborative activities in topics of sustainability and social responsibility are vital to expand knowledge to achieve solutions for the environmental challenges of the 21st Century.
Campus Sustainability Baseline Analysis
CUERP affiliated faculty member, Dr. J. Marshall Eames is conducting the sustainability analysis to determine existing "baseline" conditions in University operations and activities that utilize resources and create waste. The analysis outcome will provide the University with tools to produce immediate and tangible sustainability improvements to resource and waste management thereby reducing the University's impact on the environment. Dr. Eames brings expertise to the project with more than 20 years of consultant work specializing in ecological engineering, environmental analysis, water resources, and ecosystem restoration.
Waste Reduction and Improved Recycling
The Consumption Reduction and Recycling Advisory Committee serves as a resource to Loyola's Facilities Management Department to help promote and publicize best waste reduction and recycling practices on both campuses. The committee consists of faculty, staff, and students who meet monthly to develop and implement strategies to promote best practices . Conducting educational outreach is one of the main strategies the advisory committee is engaged in to encourage every-day behaviors that reduce, reuse and recycle.
Focus The Nation - Unplug It!
Loyola is a participant of Focus the Nation, a campaign taking place on campuses across the country to raise awareness about climate change. 
At Loyola, CUERP and students are collaborating to educate the campus on climate issues. Recently CUERP and the Student Environmental Alliance (SEA) conducted outreach and asked students to UnPlug It -- to reduce carbon emissions. By unplugging electronics such as computers, DVDs, and printers at night and when out of town, there is a reduction in energy usage and carbon emissions. Each student that pledged to UnPlug It, received a Clif Mojo Energy Bar and a sticker that acted as a gentle reminder to unplug electronics. The sticker also included information on how many pounds of carbon emissions are reduced per year per person when unplugging the devices.
Take the Pledge - UnPlug It!
Clif Mojo Energy Bars donated by Clif Bar Inc.
Photo: Lauryn Burkhalter, SEA Secretary conducting outreach for the UnPlug It campaign.
Stay tuned for future Focus the Nation campaigns.