Loyola University Chicago has made significant commitments and contributions to sustainability through our buildings, our academic programs, and our student-directed programs. 

In an effort to continue and develop a ‘Campus as Living Laboratory’ approach, Loyola has refreshed the structure to guide and consider sustainability initiatives.  Loyola’s Strategic Plan and the 2015 Climate Action Plan (CAP) both set out clear priorities for future investments in sustainability and social justice for our campuses. 

Formed in 2016 by the Loyola Administration, the Sustainability Committee is tasked to serve as a central point for reviewing and coordinating proposed projects and tracking progress towards the goals identified in the Climate Action Plan so that Loyola can continue to advance its sustainability culture and connect to opportunities and visions for a sustainable future.

Structure and Process

The Sustainability Committee is made up of representatives from academic and operational units across the university most directly involved in sustainability.  A diversity of representation including students, staff, faculty and administration is included.  The Committee meets two times per semester to review proposals.

Sustainability Project Considerations

• The key consideration will be the project’s rationale and clear demonstration of how Loyola's Strategic Plan and/or the CAP will be advanced.
• Types of Projects: Outreach and Engagement, Infrastructure, Research 
• Duration of Projects: Some projects will require a feasibility study prior to implementation, therefore requiring a 2-step process, while others are able to be considered with a single application process.
• Costs of Projects: Low cost (under $5,000) projects may be considered by various funding sources, projects $5,000 and over to be considered by the Committee and then directed to the Provost and Senior VP for Capital Planning and the Budget Review Team.
• Originating Unit or Department: Various groups are involved in implementing sustainability at Loyola. Whether projects originate from an academic or operational unit may influence the available funding sources.
• At the end of each year, a summary of the projects and the progress accomplished toward the carbon reduction goals of the Climate Action Plan and programmatic goals of Loyola's Strategic Plan will be shared with the Loyola Administration.