Green Operations

As part of a research project, students help install a green roof on Seegers Union in 2012.

Efficiency
Muhlenberg has incorporated renewable energy and energy efficiency and conservation projects into its operations and educational programs as a means to educate the campus community about sustainable energy solutions and realize cost savings.

Recent projects include installing electric meters to monitor building energy use, converting buildings to LED lighting, replacing HVAC units with Energy Star rated units, installing WiFi programmable thermostats in MILE houses and replacing old windows. Real-time residence hall energy use is available online.

The Office of Housing & Residence Life supports purchasing EnergyStar rated appliances.

Water Conservation
Muhlenberg was recently recognized by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education as #4 for water conservation in higher education.

The College accomplished this by incorporating water-efficient features, including the use of waterless urinals and low-flow toilets and faucets. These measures reduce water use by an estimated 37 percent. Installing motion-sensor operated faucets in bathrooms reduced water waste, as did the installation of low-flow showerheads in College residence halls and low-flow toilets across campus, the planting of native and hardy grasses to eliminate irrigation on the majority of campus and the introduction of organic additives to steam boiler systems to enable water recycling.

Purchasing
Muhlenberg is committed to reducing negative impacts on the environment wherever possible and recognizes that the purchase, use and disposal of products impacts the environment and public health. The College integrates economic, ethical, environmental and social considerations into all purchasing decisions while maintaining standards of cost and value.