Loyola University Chicago and Portland Community College in Portland, Ore., are the recipients of the eighth annual Climate Leadership Awards for 2017.
"By prioritizing sustainable practices and environmental literacy as part of their mission, Loyola University Chicago and Portland Community College are leading the charge in mitigating climate change and fostering well-rounded and informed global citizens,” says Jaime Van Mourik, vice president of Education at the U.S. Green Building Council. "We are thrilled to recognize this year’s winners, honorable mentions and finalists for their dedication to creating a strong culture of sustainability and stewardship in higher education, and encourage others to follow in their footsteps."
Loyola was chosen as the winner in the category for four-year institutions. It has reduced carbon emissions by 38 percent from a 2008 baseline per square foot of facility at two of its locations, and is now home to 10 LEED-certified buildings across four campuses. The university has more green roofs than any other in the Midwest.
Portland Community College, recipient in the two-year category, has reduced energy consumption by 65 percent per square foot since 2006, has nine LEED-certified buildings on its campuses, including a net zero LEED Platinum center, and has three solar installments totaling more than 700 KW.
The Climate Leadership Awards recognize advanced leadership in sustainability, climate change mitigation and resilience at college and university campuses that are part of Second Nature’s Climate Leadership Network. The Green Building Council, together with Second Nature, a national nonprofit that advocates for sustainability, choose the award winners.
“The Climate Leadership Network continues to drive innovative solutions, which is the only way the sector and the nation will continue to remain globally competitive,” says Tim Carter, president of Second Nature. "This demonstrates to students - our next generation of leaders - what a commitment to climate action looks like.”
