2011 Sustainability Yearbook

2011 Sustainability Yearbook Appalachian State University find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

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Letter from the Chancellor Dear Friends: Welcome to Appalachian’s first Sustainability Report. I hope you enjoy learning more about the university’s commitment to sustainability and the related work of our engaged students, faculty and staff.

Appalachian has long been a leader in sustainability. For more than 20 years, the university has offered undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Appropriate Technology and Sustainable Development. The campus community takes sustainability very seriously, and sees it as a way of life. Boone and the surrounding High Country’s beautiful mountain setting helps us attract faculty, staff and students who have an appreciation for and commitment to preserving our natural environment.

In 2008 when I signed the Presidents’ Climate Commitment pledging our university to work toward climate neutrality, I did so with a confidence in our dedication and ability to tackle this sizable challenge. Since that day, we have taken significant organizational steps to strengthen our overall sustainability effort, including: • Created the Office of Sustainability and hired its first director, Mr. Ged Moody; • Established the Research Institute for Energy, Environment and Economics, recruiting Dr. John Pine as its director; • Published the university’s 2020 Master Plan, which includes significant commitments to building for and supporting sustainability; and • Recharged our Sustainability Council as a 50-plus member body with broad representation and responsibility for charting our sustainable future.

The quality of the academic programs offered on this campus was confirmed when the U.S. Department of Energy selected Appalachian—one of 20 universities worldwide and the only one in North Carolina—to participate in the 2011 Solar Decathlon competition. This prestigious design competition will take place in Washington, D.C., in the National Mall’s West Potomac Park beginning in September, 2011.

As an institution of higher education, we are preparing the leaders of tomorrow for a world that will demand sustainable practices. In leading by example, we enrich our students’ educational experiences in ways that will propel them to be the leaders of this sustainable future.

At Appalachian, we recognize sustainability is a journey, and “sustain Appalachian” is our commitment to advance our knowledge, to demonstrate innovative practices, and to lead by example.

Sincerely,

Kenneth E. Peacock Chancellor

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Mission Statement & Table of Contents S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y : Mission Statement Appalachian State University leads in creating a world where environmental, societal, and economic qualities exist in balance to meet the resource needs of today and of future generations. Our community of students, faculty and staff continually advance our understanding, capabilities and practices in this vital journey. As an institution of higher learning, we lead and educate by example, inspiring new generations prepared to share this knowledge, ingenuity and passion.

Members of the Solar Decathlon team work on the Solar Homestead project. (page 30)

Table of Contents Commitment and History...................6-7 Academics....................................... 8-13 Engaged Students.......................... 14-21 Campus Initiatives......................... 22-31 Tomorrow and Beyond..................32-34

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Letter from Ged Moody, Director of Sustainability

“Sustainability at Appalachian is a story with a rich past and an exciting future.”

- Ged Moody, director, office of sustainability

SU S TA IN A B I LI T Y: Essential Character Appalachian has a decades-long commitment to sustainability, offering multiple degree programs and engaging our community through innovative initiatives. We honor this history, and boldly move forward, inspired by our unique mountain setting and with a genuine respect for the natural environment. We recognize sustainability is a journey, and “sustain Appalachian” is our commitment to advance our knowledge, to demonstrate innovative practices, and to lead by example.

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Greetings, What an honor and a privilege it has been to participate in the formation of the Office of Sustainability, and to participate in defining our university’s sustainability path. These first months have been a period of discovery, continually uncovering commitments that our students, faculty and staff have undertaken in the recent and distant past. We see a university that seeks to progress its understanding and actions toward sustainability, and one that is prepared to lead in this important effort.

Appalachian is a microcosm, our campus community mimicking the systems of the larger world. We live here, we eat here, we generate and consume energy here, we utilize diverse modes of transportation, and we have our own cultural, social and economic networks. Our challenge is to fortify these systems so they may continue to sustain us without further straining environmental, social, and economic resources. We see the effort to create this more sustainable community as an educational opportunity. Through our teachings and our actions, we will educate one another, preparing our graduates to enter the next phase of their lives as leaders in this era of sustainability.

I hope you enjoy this booklet. In it you will find a celebration of our past and present, along with glimpses into our future. Meet students from all disciplines; their enthusiasm for the future inspires us. Discover a faculty with deep knowledge of sustainable practices and a strong desire to educate. Learn about our dedicated staff members who embrace these practices, and see themselves as part of this educational effort.

Finally, we encourage you to participate in this exciting effort.

If something in this story touches you, we invite you to join us. We greatly value your encouragement, ideas, efforts and support. In a way, this is a path we all walk together, on a journey we call “sustain Appalachian.”

Very best regards, Ged Moody Director, Office of Sustainability

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SUSTAINABILIT Y: Vision •

Engage faculty, students and staff in ongoing dialogue, inquiry, and discovery of more sustainable practices through curriculum, degree programs, and scholarly research.

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Empower students across the curriculum with an awareness in sustainability issues and a capacity to contribute to the construction of sustainable societies.

• Integrate sustainable practices into all aspects of university planning and operations, focusing both on the current and future implications.

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Design, build and operate a campus environment that minimizes its ecological footprint, contributing to the goal of climate neutrality.

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Create new paradigms for energy, transportation, water, waste and food systems that contribute to best practices in higher education.

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Participate in research initiatives and outreach activities that educate our communities, nourish our natural ecosystems, and enrich our cultural experiences.

• Embrace health, diversity, tolerance, and human rights as principles by which policy and process are designed.

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Commitment and History

S U S T A I N A B I L I T Y : Values

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is more than an initiative at Appalachian State University – it is a way of life that is becoming increasingly ingrained into the campus community’s individual and institutional decision-making.

Appalachian is located in an aesthetically pleasing ecological setting that is culturally and recreationally rich. Together, the setting and the people create a strong sense of place that binds community members to each other and to the natural world. This foundation provides a unique opportunity to demonstrate how to build and maintain a sustainable community.

Appalachian has a rich history of commitment to sustainable practices. Besides having the nation’s oldest, recognized Sustainable Development and Appropriate Technology academic programs, Appalachian rethinks common practices and implements state-of-the-art technologies related to energy production and energy conservation on campus.

This offers considerable cost-savings and exceptional research opportunities for faculty and students.

Engaged Leadership

Appalachian’s adherence to sustainability principles exists through all levels of the organization. The actions taken demonstrate the university administration’s commitment to sustainability and its desire to be a positive role model for progressive change for students as well as the community as a whole. The commitments listed below are symbolic statements and also contain specific measurable benchmarks to guide a wide range of campus initiatives: • Signing of the 1990 Talloires Declaration– our first, official commitment of higher education to environmental sustainability symbolizing Appalachian’s commitment to incorporating sustainability and environmental literacy into its teaching, research, operations and outreach.

• Signing of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), which

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• Focused on our roles as educators and researchers, instilling the knowledge and values of sustainability into our entire community.

• Understand that decisions throughout the university have sustainability implications which must be considered and addressed.

• Realize that sustainability must focus on interrelated environmental, societal, and economic issues and resources at both the local and global levels.

• Open to continually educate ourselves on the principles and possibilities of sustainability and willing to pursue innovative solutions.

• Committed to transparent reporting of our sustainability goals, initiatives and progress to the Appalachian community and beyond.

• Respect the planet’s natural environment and our unique mountain setting, embracing our interconnectedness with these ecosystems.

provides a framework and support system for colleges and universities to implement comprehensive plans in pursuit of climate neutrality.

• Appalachian became one of 86 schools to participate in a pilot program called the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS), and continues to participate in this comprehensive, industry standard scorecard, which was developed by the Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), and is used by colleges and universities to gauge progress toward sustainability.

• Development of the Sustainability Council, which includes representatives from all academic and operational areas across the university.

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Commitment and History Recognized Leadership

Every year, the Princeton Review designates a “Green Rating” evaluation of colleges and universities based on their environmentally related policies, practices and academic offerings. In both 2009 and 2010, Appalachian State University scored an impressive 98 out of 99 possible points.

In addition, Sierra Club Magazine included Appalachian in its 2010 list of “Cool Schools,” an annual list of schools doing the most for the planet. These recognitions can be traced to Appalachian’s holistic approach to pursuing sustainability as demonstrated by our: • rich commitment and history, • exemplary campus initiatives, • comprehensive academics and research, • progressive future direction.

• actively engaged students,

“We are proud of our heritage and history of environmentalism and we are pleased to celebrate the diverse efforts that our dedicated students, staff and faculty have made through the years to show their commitment to sustainability at Appalachian State University.

It will continue to be a top priority for this institution.”

- Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock Guiding Commitments

These documents and organizations provide language and directives that guide Appalachian in creating a roadmap toward sustainability: • State of North Carolina; Executive Order 156 (1996, Gov. Hunt) • Signatory of the Talloires Declaration (1997) • Created ASU Sustainability Council (2007) • UNC Tomorrow Commission Final Report (2007) • “Reach Greater Heights”, Appalachian State University Strategic Plan (2008) • Created Research Institute for Environment, Energy, and Economics (2008) • Signatory of the Presidents’ Climate Commitment (2008) • Committed to AASHE STARS Sustainability Reporting (2008, ongoing) • Created ASU Office of Sustainability (2009) • UNC System-Wide Sustainability Policy (2009) • Appalachian 2020 Campus Master Plan (2010)

Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock, left, joins 677 colleges and universities in signing the American College and Universities Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) on Earth Day 2008.

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Decades of Commitment Appalachian’s leadership in sustainability education can be traced back more than 25 years. The university houses the nation’s longest running Sustainable Development Program (est. 1991) and has offered Appropriate Technology programs since 1984.

More than 60 faculty members in over 20 disciplines focus their research on sustainability-related topics such as food production, land use, climate change, gender issues, renewable energy and sustainable business. Currently, a university-wide effort is underway to quantify all sustainability-related activities in our curriculum, research and creative endeavors.

CHAMPION: Jon Ruth

Academics & Research “I am most proud of my work in biofuels and the creation of the Biodiesel Education and Research Laboratory. I spent my senior year working on this project, and it is the most tangible legacy I have left at Appalachian. Though there are many great MBA programs around, I wanted to move back to Boone and rejoin the sustainability movement on campus.”

- Jon Ruth ‘06, ‘10

Ruth completed the Sustainable MBA program in December 2010.

Sustainability-Focused Majors/Programs BS, MS in Appropriate Technology BS, MS in Building Science BS, Environmental Science MS, Renewable Energy Engineering BS, BA, MA Sustainable Development

Students and community members work together in a renewable energy workshop

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Sustainability-Related Majors/Programs MA in Appalachian Studies BS in Anthropology (Sustainability) BS in Biology (Ecology, Evolution, & Environmental) MS in Biology (Ecology Research Focus) MBA- Business Administration (Sustainable Business Concentration) BS in Community & Regional Planning MA in Geography (Planning Concentration) BA, BS in Geology (Environmental Geology) BA in Interdisciplinary Studies (Environmental Policy and Planning) MS in Physics (Environmental Physics) MA- Political Science (Environmental Politics and Policy Analysis) BS in Recreation Management

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Academics & Research

CHAMPION: Heather Kinsey

First Year Seminar The First Year Seminar is an interdisciplinary introduction “The way I think of my part to Appalachian’s General Education program. Freshmen in this world has evolved select a seminar from a variety of topics ranging from because of Appalachian.

Appalachian Music to Youth Culture. The most popular I applaud and thank the First Year Seminar, with more selections than any school for the opportunity other, is “Contemporary Green Living: Life Choices in to commit to sustainability Sustainability”. In addition, this course is taken by all and for providing the tools the residents of the Living Green Community, who live necessary to challenge and learn together on the “green floor” of Frank Hall, ® myself and further Appalachian’s Gold Certified LEED residence hall. societal consciousness.”

The seminar, Contemporary Green Living, emphasizes the importance of individual choices in everyday life, as we work towards our goal of - Heather Kinsey, a senior building science major and a sustainable living. Students explore the diverse realms of member of REI and the Solar energy, transportation, manufacturing, buildings, food Decathlon team. production, and more. The three pillars of sustainability (Environment, Equity and Economy) are addressed and students are encouraged to avoid “green washing” and instead, develop feasible solutions to current sustainability issues. This course includes field trips to local community-based sustainable technology projects, participation in service-learning activities such as “Recycle at the Rock,” Habitat for Humanity green building projects, Kraut Creek river clean-ups, K-12 sustainability education, and more.

For more information about Appalachian’s First Year Seminar program, visit firstyearseminar.appstate.edu

Sustainable Agriculture When chickens are raised in confined animal feeding operations, often the litter produced by the animals is high in heavy metals, including copper and zinc. In spite of this, the litter is often spread onto nearby fields as fertilizer for crops such as fescue and corn.

Biology graduate student Michele Brower is analyzing the typical cycle of chicken litter from confined animal feeding operations into fertilizer, and how this fertilizer can have an adverse effect on the crops and fields over time.

While heavy metals are partially taken up by the crops, Michele’s hypothesis is that eventually the soil will be so adversely affected by the metals that the soil will no longer support crops. Michele’s research is quantifying that time period, to determine if current farming methods will prove to be sustainable.

Michele Brower

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Academics & Research Research Institute for Environment, Energy and Economics (RIEEE) “The research institute is intended to help Appalachian expand its research and develop partnerships with other institutions, organizations and with business and industry. Together, we can bring greater insight to energy and environment-related problems and help our communities.” ‑Dr. John Pine, RIEEE director The Appalachian Research Institute for Environment, Energy and Economics (RIEEE) was established in November 2008 to enhance research opportunities for faculty and students whose interests are associated with environmental science, energy and economics issues. Faculty members in disciplines across campus conduct research in these areas. Their varied and innovative research projects also provide further research opportunities for students such as: • designing energy-efficient homes, • monitoring water quality and working with farmers • helping communities collect landfill gases to heat to identify environmentally viable crops for biofuels. and power buildings, For more information about RIEEE, visit rieee.appstate.edu

AppalAIR

The Appalachian Atmospheric Interdisciplinary Research program (AppalAIR) monitors air quality and atmospheric conditions and their impact on ecosystems in the region.

The team comprises six faculty members from the College of Arts and Sciences who conduct research with students to help interpret air quality and climate data from high elevations, which is essential to Faculty meet with students at understanding a number of regional the AppalAir facility. atmospheric issues.

Projects include the study of air pollution transport, high-impact weather events, climate variability and climate change.

AppalAIR collaborates with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Grandfather Mountain, the North Carolina Division of Air Quality and Mountain Research Initiative (MRI).

The primary AppalAIR site is located behind the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center near the highest point on campus, approximately 3,500 feet in elevation.

It is the only monitoring station east of Illinois that has been invited to collaborate with NOAA’s global network of aerosol monitoring stations. Data from the station is uploaded regularly to the United Nations database, and is available to scientists worldwide.

For more information about AppalAIR, visit appalair.appstate.edu

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Academics & Research The Collaborative Biodiesel Project

The Collaborative Biodiesel Project is a student-led initiative that was initially funded by an award from the nationwide People, Planet and Prosperity (P3) competition: Student Design Competition for Sustainability. The purpose of the project is to create a closed-loop biodiesel processing facility that provides for its own energy needs and recycles its waste products. Today, this project continues to allow students and faculty researchers to study advances in biofuels. All aspects of the process have been researched and analyzed in order to find sustainable methods for closing the biodiesel loop. The students’ mission is to create a sustainable biodiesel processor model that can be easily replicated by others.

In May 2006, the student team first presented this project at the EPA P3 Design Expo in Washington, D.C., and was chosen as one of the winners for the design competition and awarded funding to pursue education, research and outreach interests. Phase II of the project included research into biodiesel feedstocks, improved instrumentation of the facility, and expanded educational programs.

At the facility today, graduate students experiment with the production of biofuels made from recycled cooking oils donated by restaurants in the Boone area. The biodiesel produced at the facility powers vehicles of local residents, as well as the on-site boiler for the facility. Solar panels provide hot water and electricity, and research takes place in an adjacent greenhouse that was built by students.

For more information about The Collaborative Biodiesel Project, visit biodiesel.appstate.edu

Facility Manager Jeremy Ferrell, right, gives a tour of Appalachian’s Collaborative Biodiesel Project.

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Academics & Research EPA P3 Grants - National Awards

Appalachian’s Department of Technology has had huge successes in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s annual P3 (People, Prosperity and the Planet) Competition, winning more projects than any other university in the state and ranking among the top participating schools in the nation.

In the last five years, Appalachian has had seven Phase I winners and three Phase II winners out of 10 chosen winners. Appalachian is one of the only non-Research 1 institutions with multiple Phase II awards, which provide funding for continued research and development.

The competition promotes innovative thinking for moving the world toward sustainability. Projects must benefit people, promote prosperity, and protect the planet through innovative designs that address challenges to sustainability in both the developed and developing world.

For more information about the EPA P3, visit epa.gov/P3/

ASU EPA P3 Winners

2010-2011 Sun, Bottles and Beeswax: Local solutions for clean water using solar disinfection - Phase I funding Students research the potential of using solar UV and heat to disinfect water in waste soda bottles to create clean water for the developing world.

Linking Wastewater Purification and Biofuel Production - Phase I funding Students are researching the potential of running animal manure waste lagoon water through troughs in order to efficiently grow and harvest algae which can be used for biofuel production.

2009-2010 Gasification for Agricultural Energy Sources and Soil Enrichment Phase II funding Students developed an affordable gasification production that can cogenerate electricity, heat and soil amendment for agricultural production.

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P3 TEAM “Gasification for Agricultural Energy Sources and Soil Enrichment” (won Phase II funding) ­— Daniel Law, Landon Williams, Jack Martin, Heather Kinsey, David Domermuth, Bucky Black, Asher Flynt, Eric Urban, Mike Uchal

2008-2009 Closing the Carbon Loop: Growing Algae Using Sustainable CO2 from Bio-waste Phase II Honorable Mention Students designed and built a sustainable algaculture facility for producing biofuels Fair Trade Ethanol: Fuel Production from Coffee Wastes Phase II Honorable Mention Students designed and developed a coffee wastewater treatment system to improve the sustainability of coffee production.

2006-2007 The Affordable Bioshelters Project: Testing Technologies for Affordable Bioshelters Phase II Funding Students designed and built affordable greenhouses powered renewably to conserve energy, reduce the demand for fossil fuels, and allow more food to be grown locally at lower economic and ecological cost.

2005-2006 Closing the Biodiesel Loop: Self Sustaining Community Based Biodiesel Production Phase II Funding 2007-2008 Students developed a sustainable The Boone Bicycle Initiative: A education facility to promote and Community Based Project to Promote demonstrate small-scale biodiesel Bicycles as an Alternative Mode of processing while providing hands-on Transportation - Phase I funding research opportunities. (This became Students developed and implemented the Collaborative Biodiesel Project.) a community-based program to encourage the use of bicycles for commuting. (This became the Boone Bicycle Initiative.)

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Academics & Research “Being part of a team working to develop an affordable product that can produce clean renewable energy as well as strengthen local food systems was a highlight of my graduate studies at Appalachian. I would like to thank all of our team members, the EPA, the university, and the Department of Technology for the help and support.”

- Mike Uchal ‘10, a Technology graduate now teaching as adjunct faculty in the Department of Technology

“Appalachian has been involved with biofuels and alternative energy for many years. The latest entry into the group is wood gas. This is a sustainable opportunity for Appalachian to convert wood waste and fuel crops to enriched soil and clean energy.”

- Dr. David Domermuth, faculty advisor for the EPA P3 Phase II winning project “Biomass Gasification for Agricultural Energy Sources and Soil Enrichment“

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CHAMPION: Dr. David Domermuth

In spring 2010, students from the Department of Technology received a twoyear $75,000 EPA P3 (People, Prosperity and the Planet) Award to continue work on a project to convert biomass into a usable by-product that can produce fuel to warm greenhouses.

The students’ project is titled, “Biomass Gasification for Agricultural Energy Sources and Soil Enrichment.” The award will support their work to further develop and implement their project design and move it to the marketplace. “We were very excited and honored to receive the award,” said Michael Uchal, who was a lead investigator for the project while a graduate student.

Working with local community partner Bucky Black of Resource Wood Inc., and California manufacturer All Power Labs, the students are developing an affordable combined heat, power and biochar system that uses agricultural byproducts, such as woodchips, to produce electricity.

Farmers using the system could connect to the power grid, thereby providing an additional revenue stream from the production of electricity. The farmer could also recover the heat generated by the system and use it to create an efficient growing environment within a greenhouse.

The system also produces biochar, a soil amendment which functions like an organic battery to store nutrients that otherwise leach out of the soil.

CHAMPION: Mike Uchal

Biomass Gasification for Agricultural Energy Sources and Soil Enrichment

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Engaged Students The students at Appalachian State University have always been, and continue to be, essential to the sustainability movement on campus and beyond. Whether creating a student-led committee to initiate and implement on-campus renewable energy projects, developing a sustainable living community, applying for grants or just joining a club, Appalachian students always have been conscious and motivated in leading the way.

Renewable Energy Initiative (REI) In February 2004, a group of motivated students initiated the arduous process of creating a student-led committee to allocate student fees for renewable energy projects on campus. In March 2004, a referendum was presented for a campus-wide vote. It was approved, and in 2007 it was reaffirmed by 92 percent of the student body.

Each year, more than $150,000 in student fees is directed towards the implementation of renewable energy.

This money is managed by students and designated to help offset the university’s dependence on fossil fuels. REI serves as outreach and education to students and community members about the benefits of renewable energy.

Established as a student-run organization, the REI does rely upon faculty and staff members as advisors.

Each year, the REI recommends, manages and installs multiple projects a year across campus. Appalachian’s “E3” House is one of these projects. Designed to be an energy efficient, economical and environmentally responsible alternative to typical FEMA trailers, the prototypical, selfsufficient dwelling is designed and constructed for use in remote or disaster relief situations where electricity and access to public sanitation are unavailable.

The most visible of the REI projects is the 100 kW wind turbine at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center.

Situated at the highest point on campus and standing more than 153 feet tall, it was selected specifically to depict an industry-scale wind turbine, thus educating the entire region. As of February 2010, the turbine had produced 185,000 kWh, enough power to sustain 200 homes for one month.

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REI Mission Statement:

“Reduce the environmental impact of Appalachian State University by replacing the university’s existing sources of energy with cleaner forms of renewable energy technology on campus and serve as a resource for students and faculty by identifying and investing in the most appropriate energy projects.”

Major REI Projects and Funding Broyhill Inn 100kW Wind Turbine

$304,000

Student Union Solar Thermal

$153,000

Raley Hall 4 kW Photovoltaic Array

$65,000

Appalcart Bus System Biodiesel

$60,000

E3 House Photovoltaic Array

$30,000

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Engaged Students The informational kiosk at Plemmons Student Union is an REI project dedicated to education. This kiosk links to live monitors and will stream live data about REI projects from across campus. Other projects include a photovoltaic installation on the ASU E3 house, the Biodiesel Collaborative solar thermal and photovoltaic projects, and the Harper Hall photovoltaic installation, which was completed by Appropriate Technology students. Other planned projects include solar powered trash compactors, a solar thermal installation at the Broyhill Inn which will serve the Ivory Tower Brewery and a solar powered “A” at Kidd Brewer Stadium.

For more information about REI, visit rei.appstate.edu

A particularly photogenic REI project is the Raley Photovoltaic (PV) installation, a 4 kW system designed to look like the mountain landscape while educating people as to the feasibility of harnessing the sun’s energy to produce electricity. Installed by Appalachian graduates, this picturesque installation generates close to 6000 kWh per year, which offsets 2.5 tons of coal.

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Engaged Students ASUSES (Solar Club)

Appalachian students have long acknowledged the importance of renewable energy to our shared energy future. In 1996 a group of students who wanted to learn and teach each other about renewable energy technologies formed the Solar Club, presently known as ASUSES. The Appalachian State University Sustainable Energy Society (ASUSES) continues to be an extremely active voice both on campus and in the community for renewable energy and sustainable living. ASUSES hosts workshops, lectures, an annual Green Home tour, movies, Earth Day events, the annual Solar Christmas Tree Lighting, and other educational programs on campus and in the community.

Solar Holiday Tree

2010 marked the 15th anniversary of a very special ASUSES event: the lighting of the Solar Christmas Tree. The tree, located in the heart of downtown Boone at the Jones House Community Center, is lit with LED lights powered entirely by a battery banked photovoltaic panel collector.

The event traditionally Boone Mayor Loretta brings together the town and Clawson flips the switch on Boone’s solar-powered the university for a joint holiday celebration while informing the holiday tree. public about the benefits and importance of clean, renewable sources of energy.

ASUSES MISSION STATEMENT “Our purpose is to educate, enlighten, and inform students and the community about solar and other renewable energy applications, green building, and other aspects of sustainable living.”

DAISEE

The Delivering Appropriate Innovative Sustainability Energy Education (DAISEE) trailer is on the move, bringing sustainable and green technologies to events around the state. DAISEE is a mobile trailer that showcases sustainable practices such as fully functioning solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal panels, a wind generator and green building techniques.

Originally designed by the Department of Technology, the local green building industry and ASUSES, DAISEE shows off green technology and acts as a mobile outreach station. DAISEE’s handson approach allows onlookers a chance to better understand renewable energy and green building techniques.

DAISEE continues to make appearances at several regional events, including festivals, trade shows and musical events.

For more information about ASUSES, visit asuses.appstate.edu

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Appalachian & the Community Together (ACT) Appalachian & the Community Together (ACT) is the campus clearinghouse for community service, service-learning, and communitybased research within the NC High Country, the state, nation and world. ACT offers diverse opportunities to get involved in human services and environmental advocacy, and assists faculty members and community partners with integrating service projects into their courses and agencies. Collectively, ACT students contribute more than 13,000 hours of community service each year.

Most visibly, ACT sponsors Earth Day each April, with activities related to sustainability, conservation and awareness. Events for the community and the students include a plant sale, a recycled art showcase, cookies made with solar energy, eco-tie-dye, and the newly added Sustainability Film and Lecture series.

During a campuswide celebration of Earth Day, students demonstrate the use of seed balls as a no-till method for planting in compacted or barren soil.

ACT’s Sustainability-related Programs Don’t Throw it Away collections: Over the past three years, more than 167 tons of material have been diverted from landfills and sold at the BIG Sale in the fall. Local community partners apply for Energy Efficiency Mini-Grants and supply food and volunteers during collection days.

The BIG Sale: Items collected from Don’t Throw it Away are sold at a yard sale on campus. Over the past three years, more than $38,000 was raised from the sale to benefit the energy efficiency initiatives of Mountain Alliance, The Children’s Playhouse, Sugar Grove Developmental Day School, and the Hunger and Health Coalition. The sale also supports a fund for international service-learning scholarships.

ACTs of Service: These one-time service opportunities target students who have never been involved in service.

Past projects include working with Wine to Water, Mountain Mission Farms, Gardens for Humanity and other environmental organizations.

Window on Wales: This biennial trip is co-sponsored by ACT and Outdoor Programs. The course explores sustainability in many forms and engages in environmentally-based servicelearning projects. It also incorporates a plan to offset the carbon emissions of the group’s travel.

Alternative Spring Break: In 2010, 325 students along with faculty leaders took 17 domestic and nine international trips during their Spring Break. This one-week-long service opportunity offers students the ability to offset their carbon footprint during their travels. Recently, students were able to offset their carbon footprint by planting trees at nearby Elk Knob State Park.

For more information about ACT, visit act.appstate.edu

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Engaged Students Sustainable Food - The Goodnight Family Farm

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“The farm is a safe place

CHAMPION: Brooke Kornegay

The Goodnight Family Sustainable Development Program is a 20-year-old interdisciplinary academic and outreach program. The Sustainable Development major offers students a unique opportunity to explore concepts from social and natural sciences, as well as the humanities.

Students studying Sustainable Development utilize two nearby Teaching and Research Farm and Agroecology Laboratories to enhance their classroom lessons about agroecology, agroforestry, environmental and resource economics and sustainable farming practices. Instead of lectures and assignments inside a laboratory, students spend time working in the fields applying their studies to practice.

Students plant, maintain and harvest organic produce nurtured by the compost that is created at the university.

They grow experimental crops of broccoli, garlic, strawberries, lettuce and other vegetables and fruit trees.

Information about the suitability of various crops for the area is shared with area farmers to encourage sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

The farm is also home to livestock to give students insight into production methods. The farm has a meat handler’s license from the N.C. Department of Agriculture, and is able to sell pork from the farm-raised pigs on occasion, which is processed by a USDA-licensed meat processor in Wilkesboro.

In addition, students learn about soil management, farm business management and marketing, and ecologically based pest management.

to practice the art of growing food in an ecologically responsible way. It’s not just a place for students to get some credit hours; it is a place they bring their friends, a place where community members gather to work together and learn about taking back some of the power that our society has given up. At the farm, we reclaim the power to cultivate not just food, but also an awareness of community and ecological interconnectedness.”

- Farm Manager Brooke Kornegay, a former Peace Corps volunteer who now teaches in Sustainable Development

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Engaged Students Farm Stand

Students in the Sustainable Development program grow produce on the program’s teaching and research farm. During the spring and fall semesters, students hold an oncampus market and also sell their wares at the local farmers market. Proceeds help support the farm’s operations. This process provides learning benefits to students, explains farm manager Brooke Kornegay ‘00, who honed her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer and now teaches in Sustainable Development.

“The students learn about business and farmerconsumer contact, what customers like and how to market to them. They also learn how to successfully sell what they have put so much energy into growing, and it’s a way for us to interact with the community.”

Sustainable Development students sell in-season produce, including tomatoes, squash, potatoes, garlic, salad greens, onions, radishes and carrots.

Mess on the Mall

In October 2009, students and faculty came together to present “Mess on the Mall,” an awareness event designed to allow students a chance to visualize their typical amount of waste. Of the 2,040 pounds of trash that was discarded during two days, an estimated 175 pounds of recycling waste was diverted from waste streams.

Enthusiastic staff members and students worked together to sort these recyclable materials from the trash, and a visual display was formed on Sanford Mall: piles of black bags with trash, clear bags with the recycled materials, and a separate pile of bags and bins of materials which could have been recycled but were originally discarded. Sponsored by the Office of Waste Reduction and Recycling and the Office of Sustainability, this event was designed to raise awareness of North Carolina’s new ban on plastic bottles in landfills, as well as the amount of waste the university community generates.

Signs were placed around Sanford Mall explaining the piles, encouraging recycling, giving facts about recycling in North Carolina, and informing students about the new ban. The event garnered a lot of student interest and raised awareness of both the new ban, and the amount of trash generated

by Appalachian State University. The local Elkland Art Center provided their famous “Trash Dragon,” a large puppet made of trash, to help celebrate the event.

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

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Engaged Students Nicaragua: Sustainable Development

2011 marks the 6th annual outreach program focusing on sustainable development projects and the installation of renewable energy systems at the Finca Esperanza Verde ecolodge and coffee farm. Students live with Nicaraguan families, learn about the flora and fauna, the culture of the region, and explore environmental issues in Nicaragua. Several visits are made to renewable energy projects and sustainable development programs in the region.

Department of Technology Instructor Ray Sinclair ‘09 works with local residents to install sustainably powered hot water

The Net Impact Club Mission Statement: “Our mission is to promote the level of and commitment to the principles of business ethics, values-based leadership, corporate citizenship, sustainable development, social responsibility, and social/ environmental entrepreneurship at Appalachian and the surrounding region. “

CHAMPION: Miriam Makhyoun

The Net Impact Club is a graduate club dedicated to the promotion of sustainable business practices and the development of businesses committed to the triple bottom line of people, the planet and profit. With members from departments across campus, they offer tours of local sustainable research sites such “The administration and faculty at as the Collaborative Biodiesel Project and the Appalachian have always listened Eco-Complex, and inviting lecturers to campus to to and supported student ideas. address sustainable business practices.

I hope one day they will read During Earth Week 2010, the Net Impact about me when I am the chief Club hosted a Sustainability Symposium energy officer of an innovative sponsored in part by the Walker College of company, or perhaps involved in Business’s Sustainable MBA Program. The environmental policy.” zero-waste event held at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center featured a keynote speech by - Miriam Makhyoun ‘05, a graduate plug-in hybrid engineer Kevin Walsh, as well as student in Sustainable Business and an eco-fashion show, local bands, sustainable Appropriate Technology, president crafts, wind turbine tours, and 50-minute panels of the Net Impact Club and the on “Corporate Responsibility” and the “Local Graduate Student Association Business Movement.” More than 25 exhibitors Senate, original co-author of the took part in the “Living Technology Expo,” coREI sponsored by Appalachian’s Sustainable Energy Society. For 2011, Net Impact Club is planning an outdoor music concert for Earth Week to promote sustainable awareness.

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find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Engaged Students Graduation Pledge: “I pledge to explore and take into account the social and environmental consequences, and the civic and community responsibilities, of any job or career I consider and will try to improve these aspects of any organizations for which I work.”

Appalachian recently joined the international movement among college graduates to take part in the national Graduation Pledge of Social and Environmental Responsibility. This pledge is offered at more than 100 colleges and universities around the world, and graduates who take the pledge at Appalachian wear a green ribbon on their gowns during graduation. Appalachian began taking this pledge in the 2009-2010 academic year, and more than 100 students have participated.

Graduation is green in another way: the graduation gowns now offered by the bookstore are made of renewable wood fiber from responsibly managed forests. While the gown looks like the polyester version worn by past graduates, the gown and its plastic packaging are designed to decompose in a landfill.

Student organizations with a focus on sustainability •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_

•_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_ •_

ACT’s impACT Team Sustainable Energy Society Edible Schoolyard Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway Outdoor Programs Trail Club Student Builders Residential Learning Community: Living Green Renewable Energy Initiative (REI) Boone Bike Initiative Green Club Net Impact Club SGA Environmental Affairs Sustainable Transportation Club Invisible Children Wine to Water People Fighting Poverty

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

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Campus Initiatives Acting Locally

With more than 17,000 students and nearly 3,000 employees, Appalachian’s campus environment is a microcosm of the larger world. Its campus environment showcases state-of-the-art technologies, processes and innovative financing mechanisms. Community members and visitors alike are able to witness the efforts of Appalachian’s hardworking staff as they explore our university’s grounds and operations.

LEED® Certified Buildings

In 2007, Appalachian’s Board of Trustees decreed that all future campus construction should meet LEED® standards developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. These recognized standards for environmentally friendly construction address human and environmental health, sustainable site development, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. Jim Deal, chairman of the Board of Trustees at the time, noted that working toward LEED® standards was “the appropriate thing to do for the environment and the appropriate thing from an educational perspective.” Appalachian State University currently has eight buildings that are either LEED® certified, in process or in planning for LEED® certification.

• Frank Residence Hall- (2009) • Cone Residence Hall-(2010) • AppalCART Operations and Maintenance

Facility-(2010)

• Reich College of Education-(2011)

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• • • •

Mountaineer Residence Hall-(2011) Student Union Addition-(2012) Honors Residence Hall-(2012) Beasley Broadcast Center-(2012)

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Campus Initiatives Frank Hall - A Green Living Community

Each year, one residence hall at Appalachian is removed from service for renovations that include energy-saving features. The first residence hall to receive LEED® Gold certification is Frank Hall.

Frank Hall reopened in August 2009, with its 42 flat plate solar collectors producing an average of 1,000,000 BTUs of energy each day. Other LEED® points were gained by the building’s open space, proper storm water design, covered bicycle parking, low heat island effect, reduced light pollution, and energy and water efficient fixtures. The six-story building’s original walls, floors, roof, interior elements and furnishings were reused. New regional materials with recycled content were used. All interior finishes meet indoor air quality guidelines. New energy efficient glazing and high efficiency heating and ventilation equipment help to reduce the building’s carbon footprint and operating costs.

A group of 34 students embody sustainability in the popular Living Green residential learning community in Frank Residence Hall. The students live together on one floor, and take a First Year Seminar course, “Contemporary Green Living: Life Choices for Sustainability,” which inspires them to make small lifestyle changes In order to raise awareness about buying used clothes, to reinforce their sustainability goal. The TV and lights are off if no residents participated in a Thrift Store Prom program one is in the student lounge, recycling and composting is available organized by Frank Hall RAs. in a special area, every other hall light is off to save energy, and all the residents consider it a point of pride that they walk to their floor instead of taking the elevator.

In addition, Frank Hall’s residence director and resident assistants have further fostered student initiatives for sustainable ideas and programs, such as Frank-n-Crafts, where the students make and sell crafts made from reused items, such as reusable grocery bags crocheted from plastic grocery bags. In addition, the hall has successfully petitioned McAlister’s, the on-campus deli, to adopt sustainable practices, including waste reduction measures.

Components of LEED® certification for Frank Hall • • • • • • • • • •

Energy efficient water source heat pumps Low-flow shower heads and sink faucet aerators Energy efficient electric hand dryers Dual flush toilet valves (which save up to 1/2 gallon of water per flush) ENERGY STAR appliances T-8 and T-5 florescent lighting utilizing motion sensors in public areas Non-PVC resilient floor tile Recycled/repurposed lobby furniture Pervious concrete outside 42 solar panels on the roof to pre-heat domestic hot water and assist heat pumps with pre-heating

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Frank Hall residents won first place in the homecoming float competition with “Sustainable Yosef.” Yosef was built by the residents using all natural and found materials.

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Campus Initiatives Greening the Union

In 1986, before Appalachian had adopted recycling procedures, students desired to start a recycling program. Dave Robertson, director of student programs, was enthusiastic and very supportive.

Later, Robertson would form a group dedicated to making Plemmons Student Union more sustainable while simultaneously saving money to be directed toward other student activities.

“I have always been focused on our need as humans to protect the earth for future generations, and to teach our students their responsibility to do the same,” Robertson said.

The first initiative of the Greening of the Union group was to hire SEO/Waste Reduction Partners from Asheville to conduct a study targeting the building’s lighting and HVAC systems. A subsequent bulb replacement project led to annual savings of $18,000 a year, and also positioned Plemmons Student Union to become one of the earliest sites in North Carolina to do a wholesale experimental installation of dimmable LEDs. Since then, more than 20 different sustainability actions have been taken at Plemmons Student Union. Robertson’s goal is to have the addition to the student union, now under construction, to be LEED® Gold certified.

Yearly Savings from Plemmons Student Union Initiatives Electric lighting retrofits (cost $20,000) $22,000 Removal of lights $350 from vending machines per machine Installation of aerators on faucets

$450

Solar thermal panels for water heating

$14,000

The Plemmons Student Union solar thermal system was the first of the REI-funded projects. It serves as a pilot commercial-scale domestic hot water (DHW) solar thermal system for the area and the university.

The DHW solar thermal system consists of 42 flat plate collectors, seven of which have experimental glazing technology, three 400-gallon EPDM rubber lined storage tanks, nine stainless steel perforated heat exchangers, and 200-plus feet of copper pipe.

The total cost of the system was $153,000. The solar heated water produced by the system is utilized on site, reducing the emissions and costs associated with the use of the central steam system and is estimated to generate annual energy savings of approximately $11,000 to $14,000.

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find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Campus Initiatives Future Initiatives

• All T12 light bulbs replaced with T8 light bulbs • All electromagnetic ballasts replaced with electronic ballasts • Compact fluorescents installed in common spaces, coffee shops and meeting rooms • .5 gpm water aerators installed in all sink faucets • Water bottle filling station installed • State Energy Office energy audit conducted (2005) • New recycling containers • LED exit signs installed • Dual flush handles installed in women’s restrooms • “These Come from Trees” stickers placed on bathroom towel dispensers • New carpet squares installed from greenest available distributor • “Focus the Nation” National Global Warming teaching event hosted January 2008 • PSU Green logo developed • Campus sustainability bulletin board installed • Recycling drop-off station created for cell phones, batteries, etc.

• Information Kiosk on sustainability issues with REI • Environmentally friendly cleaning supplies used • Lights removed from vending machines • Signs on water and paper towel conservation installed in all bathrooms • Dimmable CFLs installed in meeting rooms • 100% and 50% recycled paper used in copiers and printers • Furniture upholstered using eco-fabrics • Participant in Earth Month • Solar thermal panels installed for water heating

•

•

•

•

•

• •

•

Better awareness to bring your own mug/cup to Crossroads Coffeehouse and Cascades eatery HVAC automated system temp setback (analysis in progress) Broader “lights out” campaign before breaks and holidays More efficient hand dryers vs. paper towels (or better paper dispensers) Sustainability workshop for custodial maintenance staff Low flow shower heads in Mt. Mitchell Fitness Center Awareness event with filmmaker Jeff Barrie (Kilowatt Ours) Comprehensive resource list of faculty/staff with knowledge on sustainability issues

CHAMPION: Dave Robertson

Greening the Union Completed Initiatives

“We all need to remember that there is no ‘away.’ Everything we can do to reduce, reuse and recycle leaves a little bit more of our precious and finite resources for future generations.

The student union has an obligation to set an example for the campus in many ways, not the least of which is to be a leader in practicing sustainability.”

- Dave Robertson, director of student programs

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

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Campus Initiatives Campus-Built Environment

Appalachian has a strong focus on financial efficiency as well as environmental impact. Improving the performance of our buildings is critical to these efforts, and emphasis is placed on continually improving building planning, design and proactive maintenance.

Climate Action Plan

The university’s 2010 Climate Action Plan declares that Appalachian will be climate neutral in 2050, and defines an interim goal to reduce our carbon footprint by 51 percent by 2025. This will require campus-wide engagement, and the university will perform an annual greenhouse gas inventory to track efforts toward climate neutrality.

Energy Performance Savings Contract

In 2009, Appalachian contracted with Pepco Energy Services to reduce energy consumption in campus buildings.

Technologies utilized in this effort include lighting upgrades, heating and air-conditioning improvements, watersaving appliances and building envelope enhancements. This energy savings performance contract represents an innovative way to finance value-added building upgrades.

Campus Energy Reduction

Greg Lovins, interim vice chancellor for Business Affairs describes the arrangement with Pepco as a “win-win situation for the university.

The contract with Pepco will allow us to save energy, and the savings from reduced utility costs will finance the loan,” he says. Upgrades from this project result in approximately $600,000 in annual energy savings.

Visualizing energy usage is key to understanding the university’s efforts to reduce energy consumption, so the physical plant has installed software at sustain.appstate. edu that allows for public monitoring of real-time energy use in campus buildings.

This “dashboard” capability also allows for interactive display of our various renewable energy systems on campus, including the wind turbine at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center, Appalachian’s four solar-thermal water heating systems and the university’s four photovoltaic systems.

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BTUs per square foot

Real-Time Energy Monitoring

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Campus Initiatives Landscape Services

CHAMPION: Jim Bryan

Landscaping Services has a practice of using native plants to emulate the natural environment, but Appalachian’s lush, green campus and beautiful grounds are green in another way: no “restricted use” pesticides are used anywhere on campus. In fact, Appalachian’s Landscape Services department uses all organic fertilizers (most of which come from the nearby Boone Waste Treatment Plant) and all on-campus compost from autumn leaves, wood chips and food waste collected on campus. Instead of toxic pesticides, the staff uses horticultural oils, which are safer for everyone on campus, including the grounds crew.

“Other than people,

Bryan’s priorities also include the use of native plants. Most of the landscaping on campus utilizes native the most valuable perennials, a practice called xeriscaping, which reduces the resources we have are need for flower bed irrigation. Other than what is necessary our soil and water, to maintain the soccer and softball fields, landscape and we need to watering is used only while getting new plants established. do all we can to The use of native plants also helps manage the challenge protect them.” of landscaping the sloped topography. In the past, many of these slopes were maintained with handheld weed- Jim Bryan, trimmers, which create greenhouse gas emissions and landscape are labor-intensive for the crew to operate. Bryan’s latest services project is to re-landscape these slopes with native plants superintendent and grasses, which maintain the stability of the slopes, and provide added benefits of increasing the efficiency of state resources while also reducing carbon emissions.

Rhododendrons are evergreen members of the azalea family and are abundant in the southern Appalachian mountains.

Depending on the species and the elevation, they bloom from May into July.

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Campus Initiatives Recycling and Composting

Diverting waste from landfills, composting and recycling are fundamental to sustainability. Through planning, community education and targeted programs, Appalachian’s faculty, staff and students diverted 40 percent of campus waste (1,219 tons) during the 20092010 academic year. Recycling also saved the university more than $647,453 in terms of the cost of waste that didn’t go to a landfill.

Across campus, in academic and residential buildings, there are recycling bins for office paper, newspapers, magazines, telephone books, books, cardboard and pasteboard, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, steel cans and all-colored glass. In Plemmons Student Union, there is a special recycling site for printer cartridges, cell phones, batteries, CDs/DVDs, computer equipment, diskettes, film, rigid plastics, plastic bags and fluorescent bulbs. The Post Office has a slot for confidential recycling.

All the Appalachian Food Services facilities recycle office paper, newspapers, magazines, glass, plastic,

Kidd Brewer Stadium, known as “The Rock,” is home to Appalachian State University’s football team

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cardboard and metal cans. In addition, used cooking oil is transformed to biodiesel fuel at the Department of Technology’s Collaborative Biodiesel Project. All kitchen waste goes to the central campus recycling center for composting, which is used for landscaping on campus and at the Goodnight Sustainable Teaching and Research Farm.

For construction projects on campus, Appalachian has a close partnership with ReStore, the local Habitat for Humanity retail store. ReStore offers reusable building products to Habitat as well as members of the community. Prior to demolition of any building on campus, ReStore is invited to tour the construction site and decide which items can be salvaged and sold at the store, instead of being sent to a landfill.

In spring 2011, Appalachian is building a new, state of the art composting facility that will allow post-consumer collection of food waste increasing our recycled waste from 100 tons to 275 tons annually.

Recycle at the Rock “Recycle at the Rock” is a great way to encourage Mountaineer fans to be environmentally responsible. This successful program helped to distribute more than 8,000 green collection bags to tailgaters during the 2010 football season. Over 10.3 tons of bottles, cans, cardboard and paper were collected at tailgating areas during home football games.

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Campus Initiatives Appalachian takes its water consumption seriously, and water usage is another area in which cost savings go handin-hand with resource conservation. The water used on campus comes from a 360-million-gallon reservoir and a state-of-the-art micro filtration plant owned and operated by the university. Appalachian’s Physical Plant began monitoring water use in 2006, largely in response to a drought in the North Carolina mountains.

While past average daily water consumption had reached as high as 400,000 gallons per day in 2007, the installation of water-efficient plumbing fixtures helped reduce water consumption by 40 percent from 2004-2010.

Appalachian State University has implemented many waterefficient fixtures on campus. A few examples include: • Dual-flush toilets and low-flow shower heads in restrooms • Low-flow aerators in more than 800 sink faucets • ENERGY STAR-rated, front load, water-saving washers that are standard in all campus laundry rooms.

Recycle at the Rock Season Totals - Tons Collected

CHAMPION: Jo Hoosier

Water Usage

“The music building was the first green cleaning building on campus, and I haven’t been out sick once since we started the program. The products are much easier on the skin and lungs. I feel good knowing it’s not causing harm to the students, the environment or myself when I do my job.”

- Jo Hoosier, housekeeper in the Hayes School of Music

Cleaning

Appalachian has implemented “green” cleaning in all academic, support and administrative buildings on campus. It is also practiced in all residence halls, the student union, bookstore, the university’s Broyhill Inn and Conference Center, and campus dining facilities. Currently, most of the 4.5 million square feet on Appalachian’s campus is cleaned using Green Seal-certified standards.

Appalachian’s housekeeping staff has embraced the change. Jo Hoosier, who has been on staff with Building Services for seven years, has found that the most effective method for cleaning up salt tracked in during winter is a simple solution of vinegar and water. After discovering how well the low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) cleaners worked at the university, she also started using organic cleaners at her home.

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CHAMPION: Art Kessler

Campus Initiatives “We are proud of the sustainability initiatives we have implemented, and strive for continual improvement. We have committed to make sustainability a variable in all of our future business decisions.”

-Art Kessler, director of food services

Food Services

Appalachian Food Services practices environmental sustainability while striving to serve healthy and nourishing meals. Additionally, they are strengthening their commitment to locally grown food, which benefits neighbors and the local economy. Based on research by Sustainable Development graduate student Cameron Farlow, Food Services has created an operational model that emphasizes environmentally and socially sustainable food choices produced within a 250-mile radius of campus. In fall 2010, food services started offering local apples for sale in an effort to connect with regional farmers. Also in the works are various “Local Food Nights,” planned in conjunction with events such as the High Country Food Summit.

Food Services advocates the concepts of reduce, reuse and recycle in all campus food services operations. According to Food Services estimates, the amount of food-related garbage going to the landfill has been reduced 70-80 percent since 2001. Below are highlights of Appalachian Food Services’ Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Campaign.

REDUCE • Installing trash-pulper systems, reducing approximately 10 dumpsters to one • Consolidating of deliveries to a central food storage facility, reducing delivery truck traffic on campus • Placing napkins on tables instead of at silverware stations, ultimately reducing napkin consumption by an estimated 50 percent • Converting to the use of energy efficient lighting • Reducing water usage • Offering a reusable bag option REUSE • Using permanent dishes, glassware and flatware, eliminating the need for disposables • Donating extra food to The Hunger Coalition • Providing reusable drink containers at retail locations • Providing water stations to refill water bottles

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RECYCLE • Recycling office paper, newspapers, magazines, ink jet and toner cartridges, glass, plastic and metal cans • Reducing the amount of items taken to the landfill by 40 percent by purchasing cardboard bailers • Providing convenient recycling bins • Recycling oil, meat trimmings and bones • Composting all pre-consumer waste • Purchasing office paper with a minimum 30 percent recycled content.

The Central Dining Facility in the heart of campus is home to many ongoing sustainability efforts.

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Campus Initiatives Local Food at Lucy Brock Child Development Center

The Lucy Brock Child Development center, an on-campus childcare facility for students, faculty and staff, is trying new ways to integrate green initiatives and sustainable living practices into the everyday lives of the children. The center uses local foods for lunches and snacks, and has internships for Sustainable Development majors where they plant gardens with the children, explain good nutrition and introduce easy-tounderstand green living practices.

“The children drink milk from cows that have not been fed growth hormones, and the produce comes from a share purchased from the High Country CSA (Community Shared Agriculture),” said Anna Watson ‘10. “Most of the children’s protein comes from beans or (above) Erin Myers, a legumes, and meat once a week. I wanted to make a lot of the same sustainable development familiar foods, but only healthier. It is very unfair to children to not be major, works with the children to grow organic taught how to make healthy choices for themselves.”

vegetables for their lunches. (right) Kids enjoy their sustainably prepared lunches.

Transportation: AppalCART & Regional Coach Service

Since 1980, Watauga County has been home to the AppalCART, the county bus system which offers a sustainable alternative to single passenger cars. AppalCART, which is funded in part by student fees, allocations from the Town of Boone and Watauga County, and NC and federal funds, serves the students and community members of Boone free of charge. Ridership of AppalCART has been increasing steadily, and according to Transportation Director Chris Turner, the first day of school in fall 2010 hit a new high, when over 9000 one-way rides were provided on that one day.

In summer 2011, AppalCART will add to its fleet two new, diesel-hybrid 35-foot buses designed to conserve energy and operate on biodiesel fuel. The AppalCART’s 16 buses, as well as the university fleet of vans and cars, run on a fuel mixture known as B20 for most of the year. B20, which is comprised of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petro-diesel, reduces emissions such as unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter in the atmosphere.

For those seeking mass transit outside the Boone area, there are now two regional bus routes available for the community. Both routes offer subsidized fares for students and seniors. The Mountaineer EastWest line connects Boone to Greensboro, with stops in Wilkesboro, Yadkinville and Winston-Salem. The Mountaineer North-South connects Boone to Charlotte, with stops in Lenoir, Hickory, Lincolnton and Gastonia.

In both cases, riders can connect to other regional and national modes of transportation.

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Tomorrow and Beyond Appalachian State University’s strategic plan clearly states a commitment to enhancing and promoting sustainable policies and guidelines in the University’s daily practices. We recognize that every decision has sustainability implications. Conceptually, sustainability is not a future state that one seeks to achieve. Creating a sustainable culture requires thinking and acting sustainably in the moment, where the seemingly small daily actions are equally important to long-term strategic commitments.

National Recognition ­‑ Appalachian’s Solar Homestead Appalachian has been selected to compete in the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon 2011, which will take place on the National Mall’s West Potomac Park in Washington, D.C. in the fall of 2011. A total of 45 teams submitted proposals for the competition, and 20 schools were selected for next year’s competition.

Appalachian is the only university from North Carolina, and the only university that does not have a dedicated engineering department, that was selected to compete in the 2011 Solar Decathlon.

A program of the U.S. Department of Energy, the biennial competition challenges teams to design, build and operate solar-powered houses that are cost-effective, energy-efficient and attractive. The homes must demonstrate opportunities presented by cost-effective houses that combine energy-efficient construction and appliances with renewable energy systems that are available today. Since its inception in 2002, the competition has established a worldwide reputation as a successful educational program and workforce development opportunity for thousands of students.

“This is the world’s largest and most recognized green building competition,” said Jamie Russell, assistant professor in Appalachian’s Department of Technology and advisor to the team of graduate and undergraduate students working on the project.

Appalachian will compete against teams from China, New Zealand, Belgium, Canada and other U.S. universities.

“It’s an exciting process to have the freedom to create an innovative, net-zero energy design. It will be a great experience for the students who are involved in the competition. We are going to D.C. with the intent to win.”

- Jamie Russell, assistant professor, Department of Technology

Computer rendering of the Solar Decathlon house

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find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Tomorrow and Beyond Appalachian began working with Grandfather Mountain through its original developer, the late Hugh Morton, a tireless advocate for clean air, conservation issues and sustainable development with a lifelong interest in regional scientific research.

That partnership continues with the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation established to preserve Grandfather Mountain. Together, the Department of Technology and Grandfather Mountain are studying ways the attraction can become more sustainable and energy efficient.

To do so, Grandfather Mountain has installed solar thermal and photovoltaic solar panels, and is currently in the process of installing an experimental wind turbine. Executive Director for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation Penn Dameron reports that the organization’s goal is to eventually operate an entirely off-the-grid facility.

While utilizing university expertise to improve daily operations, the mountain is providing significant research opportunities for faculty, staff and students. One such project is the planned installation of a new data station by the university’s (AppalAIR) program, which will measure trace gasses and particulates and transmit this and other data to the UN Global Atmospheric Watch.

Funded in part by a three-year grant from NASA, this climate station will be the highest in the eastern U.S., 2,500 feet higher than its sister station located on campus. Appalachian chemistry professor Dr. Brett Taubman, says that the new station will provide an important vertical profile of climate data, which typically

Partnerships by the Numbers 33 - Number of current research projects between

Appalachian and Grandfather Mountain 23 - Number of Appalachian graduates employed

by Grandfather Mountain in the past three years

requires satellites or weather planes. The opportunity to utilize area topography to provide a vertical slice of continuous data is invaluable.

The grant also provides for educational opportunities. Grandfather Mountain will begin operating a Citizen Science program, training staff to educate visitors about the climate station and help them gather climate data.

Other collaborations between the university and Grandfather Mountain include a planned Learning Lodge program, which is a joint project with the Blue Ridge Parkway. The senior architectural design studio in the Department of Technology’s Building Science program provided schematic designs for a Learning Lodge on Grandfather Mountain. Originally the brainchild of the Morton family, the Learning Lodge is intended to be a landmark in sustainable design, construction and education.

CHAMPION: Penn Dameron

Grandfather Mountain - Community Connection

“Grandfather Mountain’s collaborations with Appalachian have been tremendously important. We have had opportunities to participate in globally significant research, increase the knowledge base of our staff and enhance the educational experience we offer to our visitors. As a result, we’re a better place to visit, and we’re better stewards of this special place.”

-Penn Dameron, executive director for the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

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Tomorrow and Beyond - The Sustainability Council The Sustainability Council at Appalachian State University seeks to position the university as a national leader in sustainability by ensuring that sustainability principles and policies are integrated throughout the campus’ facilities, outreach efforts, programming, educational programs, research initiatives, and other activities.

SUSTAINABILITY COUNCIL Dr. James Houser, Co-Chair Ged Moody, Co-Chair Faculty Positions College of Arts & Sciences: Brett Taubman College of Arts & Sciences: Shea Tuberty College of Business: Alan Singer College of Business: Eva Hyatt College of Education: Vachel Miller College of Education: Lisa Gross College of Fine & Applied Arts: James Houser College of Fine & Applied Arts: Lisa Stinson School of Music: Liz Rose School of Music: Melody Schwantes College of Health Sciences: Eric Frauman College of Health Sciences: Melissa Weddell University College: Sandra Lubarsky University College: Kristan Cockerill University Recreation: Andrew Miller Student Positions SGA Environmental Affairs Officer: Tyler Southern Graduate Student Assn.: Miriam Makhyoun Renewable Energy Initiative: Jon Ruth Green Living Community: Jordan Duke Net Impact Club: John McFee Solar Club: Dave Lee Sustainable Development Club: Michelle Wilkins Permanent Positions Director, Office of Sustainability: Ged Moody Director of the Physical Plant: Mike O’Connor Director of Design and Construction: Carole Acquesta University Resource Conservation Manager: Jennifer Maxwell University Energy Manager: Jerry Marshall

New River Light & Power: Ed Miller University Purchasing Manager: Jeff Talbot Director of the Institute for Environmental, Energy, and Economic Research: John Pine Director of the Energy Center: Jeff Ramsdell Director of the Center for Economic Research and Policy Analysis: Todd Cherry Director of the Southern Appalachian Environmental Research and Education Center: Howie Neufeld Athletics Department: Doug Justice Housing and Residence Life: Tom Kane Food Services: Art Kessler Equity Office: Linda Foulsham Division of Student Development: Dave Robertson University Advancement: David Taylor University Communications: Jane Nicholson Information Technology Services: Laramie Combs Faculty Senate: Eva Gonzales Staff Council: Jenny Primm Institutional Planning and Research: Bobby Sharp Director of Parking and Traffic: Barry Sauls Research & Sponsored Programs: Patricia Cornette At-Large Positions Chancellor’s Office Chief of Staff: John Earwood Vice Chancellor for Business Affairs: Greg Lovins Department of Technology: Lee Ball Department of Communication: Cindy Spurlock ACT / Community Outreach: Todd Mortenson External Affairs and Community Relations: Susan McCracken Office of Sustainability: Crystal Simmons General Education: Kristin Hyle Chair Emeritus: Jeff Tiller

Planning Your Green Visit

The Broyhill Inn and Conference Center has offered its hospitality to Appalachian visitors for many years, and has recently become home to Appalachian REI’s Northwind 100 Wind Turbine. According to Broyhill Manager Doug Uzelac, the reaction of guests to the new turbine has been overwhelmingly positive. Fact sheets offered in the lobby inform guests about the power production capabilities of the turbine, and also let guests know about other energy savings and environmentally aware actions the Broyhill is taking. For more information, please visit broyhillinn.com

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find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

Get Involved We encourage you to participate in this exciting effort. If something in this story touches you, we invite you to join us. We greatly value your encouragement, ideas, efforts and support. In a way, this is a path we all walk together, on a journey we call “sustain Appalachian.”

JOURNEY WITH US: Visit our website where you will learn all about our campus sustainability efforts including academics, research, student and campus initiatives, and a helpful resources section. www.sustain.appstate.edu/

VISIT US: Plan a visit to our Boone campus in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains or take a virtual tour. sustain.appstate.edu/visit EDUCATE WITH US: Apply your interests, knowledge and expertise as a complement to our classroom and research efforts. Our students have a lot to gain from your experience.

PARTNER WITH US: Lend your or your company’s practical experience to one of our campus projects such as energy, buildings, waste, transportation and food.

SUPPORT US: Financial support enhances our educational mission and helps our campus operate more responsibly. For information on how to help advance sustainability initiatives on campus, call 828-262-2090.

Find out more at sustain.appstate.edu

CHAMPION: Crystal Simmons

BE PRESENT WITH US: Each week there is a diverse set of campus events in which you can come and experience sustainability at Appalachian State University. sustain.appstate.edu/calendar

“Thank you for taking the time to read about our vital journey in sustainability.

We hope our story educates, inspires, motivates and communicates leadership.

We will continue to share with you our goals and progress as we uphold our commitment to sustain Appalachian.”

- Crystal Simmons, university sustainability specialist

About This Publication This publication is printed by a locally owned printing facility located within 30 miles of campus. The paper is 100% postconsumer recycled content, manufactured with a chlorine-free process using electricity generated from biogas. All printing plates, solutions, paper from spoilage and other materials directly related to the production of this project have been recycled.

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Office of University Sustainability PO Box 32161 Boone, NC 28608