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William Paterson University was one of 22 individuals and organizations recognized for its sustainability efforts during the 2024 Environmental Leadership Awards ceremony held by the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey (CIANJ), in connection with Commerce Magazine, on April 19.
The annual awards celebrate the achievement, stewardship, and leadership of CIANJ members who see to make the world a more sustainable place by protecting the environment and natural resources. The University was honored for its work to reduce energy usage on campus. Honorees were selected by a panel of independent judges who reviewed entries from companies in New Jersey that have made environmental accomplishments over the last year.
The University’s commitment to environmental leadership and sustainability through conservation, efficiency, and education extends more than two decades, and continues to grow in impact. William Paterson’s 3.3 MW solar panel installation supplies 12 percent of energy needs. While the campus has grown by 47 percent since 2001, the University has lowered consumption of electricity by 30 percent, natural gas by 50 percent, and carbon emissions by 1350 tons per year.
Strategies for conservation include food waste composting, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, recycling initiatives, installation of electric charging stations, and usage of electric shuttle buses. Honors include a U.S. Green Building Council LEED Gold Award, three Green Building Design Awards, EPA recognition for carbon reduction, and the 2020 Approaching Zero Sustainability Award.
WP is a signatory of the national Climate Leadership Network-Carbon Commitment and a member of the Second Nature higher education climate initiative. A Sustainability Committee, endorsed by President Richard Helldobler and comprised of faculty, staff, administrators, and students, guides campus efforts.
All CIANJ Environmental Leadership Award recipients are recognized for their achievements in the April edition of COMMERCE Magazine, which can be read here.
