Trinity College

College Sustainability Report Card 2009

President Jones signed the Presidents Climate Commitment. A sustainability mini-grant program is funded through the president's office. A task force, comprised of faculty, staff, and students, and sponsored by the vice president of administration and planning, promotes sustainability initiatives on campus.

The college is committed to purchasing Energy Star appliances and making other efficiency upgrades. Students run a lightbulb exchange program to raise awareness about energy usage on campus.

A farm-to-college program brings some local food to the dining halls. The college also buys cage-free eggs and antibiotic-free pork and chicken. A newly developed recycling task force utilizes student workers to promote recycling on campus. Biodegradable containers and reusable dishware are offered in the dining halls, and a discount is given with a reusable mug. Project Clean Plate rewards students for reducing food waste.

All new buildings are constructed to LEED Silver standards, and a draft green building policy is being revised to include renovation projects, as well.

A new sustainability social center will open for students in spring 2009. Student groups advocate for sustainability initiatives such as increased recycling, the purchase of renewable energy, and the reduction of waste in dining facilities. Students can also apply for a sustainability mini-grant to pursue additional projects.

The college provides free bus passes for students and is developing a web-based rideshare program, scheduled to launch in fall 2008.

The college makes neither a list of endowment holdings nor its shareholder voting record public. This information is available only to trustees and senior administrators.

The college aims to optimize investment return and is currently invested in renewable energy funds. Additional related investment opportunities are being explored.

The college asks that its investment managers handle the details of proxy voting.