Campus Sustainability

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Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) is committed to sustainability, in our classroom buildings and on our surrounding grounds.

The college is a signatory to the American College and University President Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). Their purpose it to promote leadership in their communities and throughout society. They model ways to eliminate global warming emissions, spread knowledge, and educate graduates to achieve climate neutrality. LWTech has undertaken several initiatives.

Buildings

All buildings are being constructed following guidelines set by the U.S. Green Building Council Certification program Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The LEED rating is based using strategies to improve performance in energy savings, water efficiency, carbon emissions reduction, improved environmental quality and stewardship of resources.

The Allied Health Building on the Kirkland campus, achieved a Silver rating. It is only a few points away from Gold status. The 83,000-square foot building was completed in April 2011.

The college currently leases out its Redmond Campus Building to the City of Redmond. The building was constructed in 2005. It was LWTech's first building to earn the Silver rating. It was also the first in the city of Redmond to be constructed that met LEED Silver Standards.

All capital projects comply with State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) laws and guidelines. 

Facility Operations

Board Policies - Sustainable Practices

The college will value the environment and strive to promote conserving natural resources and the goals of the Growth Management Act and Sustainable Practices Executive Order. The college will promote sustainable practices and sustainability education at the college and in the community.

You can read more about our commitment to sustainability in Chapter 7 of our Policies and Procedures Manual.

Energy Management

  • Energy Star Portfolio Manager: monitors energy usage; greenhouse gas emissions
  • Puget Sound Energy Efficiency Program and Rebates
  • Actively manage energy use: adjust systems for non-use periods. Utilize energy efficient equipment and devices.

Waste Management - Recycling Program

  • Recycle and compost food waste: Food Services & Culinary.
  • Co-mingled recycling for paper, plastic, and glass throughout college.
  • Wood recycling for pallets and other wood materials. 
  • Metal recycling for programs to recycle all types of metal.

  • Other recycling programs for small batteries, light bulbs, and lamps. Also car batteries, used oil, diesel fuel, brake fluid, antifreeze, etc.

Grounds Management

  • Integrated Pest Management: (Board Policy Chapter 9) utilize ecologically sound methods and practices; pesticide/herbicide free.
  • Drought tolerant plants.

Custodial Services

  • Utilizes paper products that are 100% recycled and EcoLogo Certified.
  • Use environmentally preferred, bio-based solutions that are safer for users and surfaces..
  • Use solutions that are biodegradable.
  • Hand soap is green seal certified. It meets standards for reduced human and aquatic toxicity and reduced smog production potential.
  • No longer buy aerosol cleaning products.

Transportation

  • Commute Trip Reduction: providing bus passes.
  • Purchase fuel efficient and environmentally friendly vehicles. This includes hybrid vehicles as part of LWTech's fleet.
  • Alternate and flexible work schedules and locations.
  • Promote "Bike to work or school."

Purchasing

  • Purchase 100% recycled white paper for offices, printers and copy machines. 
  • Purchase Furnishings that are Greenguard Certified Products. They meet established emission rates for Total Volatile Organic Compounds, formaldehyde, aldehydes, ozone, and particles.

Other

  • Promote paperless operations and processes.
  • Use alternative meeting methods including ITV, conference calls, online.