Sustainability at Harvard
This page contains content from the Summer School 2009. For current information, visit the Harvard Summer School website at www.summer.harvard.edu.
A greener Harvard Summer School
Harvard is deeply committed to environmental sustainability. In support of this important mission, Harvard Summer School has taken on several green initiatives that can help to lessen Harvard’s impact on the environment.
What is Harvard Summer School doing to be greener?
Increased recycling. More blue bins will be placed around campus, making it easier for everyone to recycle.
Implementing energy conservation in classrooms and offices around campus. Following University recommendations, we’re making minor adjustments to temperature set points in buildings to bring big savings to the University without sacrificing comfort.
Reduced paper use. Choosing double-sided printing, reducing the number of handouts, and using recycled paper for printed publications are sustainability goals for students, faculty, and staff.
Offering local food options in dining halls. Local food doesn’t travel as far to get to your table. Less travel means less energy consumed. Local food means fresher choices.
Using compact fluorescent light bulbs. Incandescent bulbs in offices and dorms were switched out for these energy-saving alternatives.
Read stories about these efforts at the Division of Continuing Education’s page on the Harvard Sustainability website. DCE is the parent division of Harvard Summer School.
Get involved!
Sign the sustainability pledge
It will only take a few minutes to complete, but the sustainability pledge will get you thinking about simple differences you can make in your life to help the environment. Any environmentally conscious action you take will make a difference.
Work for a cause
The Resource Efficiency Program (REP) employs students in the dorms and houses to encourage environmentally conscious behavior. REP will be providing information during Opening Weekend, as well as throughout the summer. Learn more at the REP website.
Take a green tour
Tour Harvard Yard during Opening Weekend.
Save money and resources by buying used furniture
The Harvard Habitat for Humanity holds a used-furniture sale in front of the Science Center during Opening Weekend to help you furnish your dorm. You can also find a used treasure on Craigslist.
Learn the top 10 actions
This helpful form will help you take action to reduce your environmental footprint.
Purchase Carbon Offsets
If your travel to and from Harvard includes flying, consider purchasing carbon offsets—a contribution made to Sustainable Travel International to offset your carbon footprints for travel.
Want to learn more?
For more information on campus greening activities visit the Harvard Office for Sustainability website.