Learning Resources

Abstract: On-campus living has been linked to student success and is a key factor in admissions decisions. As campuses look to expand and improve their housing inventories in a challenging fiscal environment, there are more options than ever available. One institution will share its recent experiences with several of these options. The University of Massachusetts (UMass) Lowell has more than doubled its on-campus housing inventory in the past five years using a combination of P3, real estate acquisitions, and conventional construction. This session will compare the relative benefits and particular challenges in utilizing these types of housing delivery methods. Come learn from campus facilities planning and student affairs officials, who will address the pros and cons of different delivery methods (P3, purchase/renovation, and conventional construction) from the perspective of up-front costs, operating and maintenance factors, student experience, and functionality.

Abstract: Campus energy consumption causes the largest environmental impacts. College and university planners, architects, and facilities managers are uniquely positioned to play a critical role promoting campus environmental responsibility by addressing the need for campus energy sustainability. Both demand- and supply-side strategies are required. On the demand side, an aggressive campus energy conservation program can reduce campus energy consumption by 30 percent or more. Addressing the supply side of the energy equation means shifting to clean, renewable, non-carbon-based energy resources and technologies. Developing campus energy policies, coping with the computer explosion, avoiding the pitfalls of electric deregulation, buying green power, and implementing green building design are all parts of the solution.

Abstract: Drawing on recent survey data from the National Wildlife Federation and other publications, this article explains what an environmental management system is and identifies its components; examines how environmental management systems have been applied and adapted to higher education settings; reports on trends in implementation; and illustrates how the environmental management system can help in planning green campuses. It addresses such issues as environmental policy, training, compliance, performance evaluation, staffing, and assessment within the higher education context.