November 2024

We are thrilled to announce that Georgia Tech's sustainability achievements are recognized in The Princeton Review's 2025 Guide to Green Colleges, earning a Green Rating Score of 91/99. The score is based on survey data and the integration of sustainability into operations, research, and education. 

Last year, the Office of Sustainability sponsored My Green Labs to increase lab efficiency in energy and water while reducing waste. The three labs piloting the project received certification this month: 

All three labs improved their sustainability practices in resource management, water use, green chemistry, equipment use, cold storage, and energy. Congratulations to everyone involved for their hard work in achieving this certification.

Jennifer Chirico, Associate Vice President of Sustainability, and Dan Nemec, Deputy Institute Architect, recently presented Georgia Tech's achievements in integrating building sustainability and climate action last month at the Society for College and University Planning's 2024 Southeast Regional Conference. Since then, they have been asked to present Georgia Tech's best practices in these areas to other universities around the country.

The Office of Sustainability launched a program with other University System of Georgia (USG) schools to exchange best sustainability practices. The first visit was held this month at Kennesaw State University (KSU). The visit included discussions on renewable energy efforts and a tour of KSU's Arboretum, clothing exchange, and Field Station, a 20-acre off-campus research site focused on sustainable agriculture. 

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

The holiday season brings increased consumption and waste. Georgia Tech's goal to reach Zero Waste (90% landfill diversion) by 2050 is best achieved by reducing the initial amount of waste generated, a concept known as source reduction. This strategy is an impactful way to save money, reduce our environmental impact, and meet our emissions goals. As we approach the holidays—and in recognition of America Recycles Day (Nov. 15)—our November newsletter highlights campus initiatives reducing waste at the source. 

Green Forks, a program supported by Klemis Kitchen, Tech Dining, Student Life, and the Office of Sustainability aims to reduce campus food waste and food insecurity. A design competition to create the official logo was won this month by Jessica Rhee, ChBE '28. Her design (left) will serve as the Green Forks logo. To join the program, complete the Green Forks alert form to notify when your catered event has leftovers to donate.

In November, Students Organizing for Sustainability and the Office of Sustainability co-hosted a clothing and book swap to encourage reuse before buying new. Missed it? Explore other campus reuse resources here:

Undergraduate biology student Diego Shipmon is our November Sustainability Champion. He holds leadership roles in various sustainability organizations, supports sustainable education opportunities, promotes native plants on campus, and inspires others by spreading awareness of the Seventh Generation Principle. Thank you for your contributions to Georgia Tech, Diego!