College Earns 2009 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence
Dickinson Website
April 15, 2009

Dickinson College has received the 2009 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence for its environmentally friendly practices and policies.

Dickinson was one of 15 Pennsylvania organizations and businesses — and the only college in the state — to receive the award.

“What these businesses and organizations and one inspiring educator all have common is their ability to view environmental challenges as opportunities to do things differently,” said Governor Ed Rendell. “Their leadership is inspiring and together we will continue to preserve and protect the commonwealth’s precious natural resources.”

Dickinson and the other 14 businesses and agencies were recognized for adopting environmentally friendly practices and technologies and for working to revitalize communities, reduce pollution, and educate the public on the benefits of being good stewards of the state’s natural resources. The state highlighted several achievements at Dickinson:

• President William G. Durden’s agreement in 2007 to participate in the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, which commits the college to a comprehensive plan to achieve climate neutrality.

• The college composts all of its food waste, which it uses to fertilize its soil at its farm. The composting program has reduced the amount of waste sent from dining services to landfills by 700 pounds a day, or 50 percent, a savings of up to $8,000 annually in tipping fees.

• Dickinson purchases 50 percent of its energy from wind power and is determined that all new construction and major renovations will be designed to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program LEED silver standards. For example, the latest additions to Dickinson College’s new Rector Science Complex, Stuart and James halls, completed last fall, achieved LEED Gold status. Stuart and James halls reflect Dickinson’s nationally recognized science programs as well as its commitment to the environment and sustainability in its curriculum and facilities.

“The College Farm appreciates the recognition for this concerted campus effort,” said Jennifer Halpin, director of the Dickinson College Farm. “The commitment of Dining Services, campus community and student farmers has enabled the College composting program to reach a level that sustains the farm’s fertility needs and supports the production of food for the campus.”

This year, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) received 40 applications from businesses and organizations across the state. The projects were judged on environmental protection, teamwork, public service, environmental education and outreach, pollution prevention, economic impact and innovative technology.

Any Pennsylvania business, government agency, educational institution, non-profit organization, individual, farm or agribusiness engaged in efforts to promote environmental stewardship and economic development in Pennsylvania were eligible to apply.

“When we make the health of our natural resources a priority, whether by investing in new technology, promoting conservation, or educating future generations about environmental issues, Pennsylvania wins,” said DEP acting Secretary John Hanger.“We applaud their conservation efforts and innovative thinking.”

Winners of the 2009 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence will receive a commemorative award to acknowledge their commitment to environmental quality during an awards celebration.

“It is wonderful to be recognized by the state of Pennsylvania for our environmental initiatives,” said Nick Stamos, vice president of campus operations.