20.22 / Sustainability

Effective: October 01, 2009

  1. Purpose

    The purpose of this statement is to set forth University policy with regard to considering and incorporating the concept of sustainability1 into the University's operations and decision-making process.

    1 Board Policy defines sustainability as "societal efforts to meet the needs of present users without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability presumes that the planet's resources are finite, and should be used conservatively, wisely and equitably. Decisions and investments aimed to promote sustainability will simultaneously advance economic vitality, ecological integrity and social welfare."

  2. Preamble

    The Kansas Board of Regents adopted a Sustainability Policy at its meeting of October 15-16, 2008, which stated that the policies, practices and programs of the state universities governed by the Board of Regents should, when possible, embody approaches that reduce life cycle costs, restore and maintain the functioning natural systems, and enhance human well-being.

  3. Policy

    1. The University will work with faculty to incorporate issues of sustainability into the learning experiences of students throughout their academic experiences.

    2. The University will work with students, faculty and staff to infuse sustainability principles into the organization of campus life.

    3. The University shall comply with all relevant environmental laws and regulations.

    4. The University will seek to integrate values of sustainability, stewardship and resource conservation into activities and services.

    5. The University will evaluate the impact of its conservation projects; incorporate green building and design methods as feasible; and consider the impact of planning decisions on future generations.

    6. The University will develop sustainability goals that will inform institutional planning, decision-making, assessment and reporting.

    7. The University shall conscientiously share the knowledge, awareness, and expertise generated by its engagement with sustainability in accordance with its mission and role in serving society as a whole.

  4. Implementation

    This policy shall be included in the WSU Policies and Procedures Manual and shared with appropriate constituencies of the University.

    The Provost shall have primary responsibility for publication, dissemination and implementation of this University policy.