The university was recognized for standing out within a pool of more than 700 schools for its sustainability-related policies, practices and programs.
Elon University has again been recognized for being among the country’s most environmentally responsible colleges and universities by The Princeton Review.
“The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges 2023 edition” profiles colleges with the most exceptional commitments to sustainability based on their academic offerings and career preparation for students, campus policies, initiatives and activities. The list was published Oct. 25.
“Being included in The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges again this year demonstrates Elon’s continued commitment to sustainability,” said Senior Director of Sustainability Elaine Durr. “It’s also recognition for the many individuals on campus who contribute to Elon’s sustainability efforts.”
The profiles in the guide provide information about each school’s admissions requirements, cost and financial aid, and student body statistics. They also include “Green Facts” about the schools with details on the availability of transportation alternatives on campus and the percentage of the school food budgets spent on local and organic food.
“Over the years, we have also seen a significant growth in the number of colleges pivoting to sustainability-related policies and programs,” said Rob Franek, editor in chief of The Princeton Review. “We are proud to shine a light on these schools and to continue serving as a unique resource for students who want their ‘best-fit’ college to also ideally be a green one. We highly recommend each and every one of the colleges in our guide.”
In announcing the list of “Green Colleges,” Franek noted that 77 percent of the 10,400 college applicants who participated in The Princeton Review’s 2022 College Hopes & Worries Survey said information about a college’s commitment to the environment would affect their decision to apply to or attend the school.
Elon has been included in The Princeton Review’s Guide to Green Colleges for each of the 13 years the guide has been published. This year, Elon earned a “green rating” of 93 out of a possible 99.
Among Elon’s initiatives and policies that contributed to its recognition as a “Green College”:
- 65% of academic departments have sustainability course offerings and faculty engaged in sustainability research.
- The Eco-Reps program provides opportunities for students to learn about sustainability issues from their peers in a variety of ways (e.g., residential neighborhood programs, Sustainable Living Lessons, Guided Campus Sustainability Tours).
- Stormwater is collected in the lakes on campus and utilized for irrigation, which supplies over 70% of Elon’s irrigation water needs.
- Since 2005, energy consumption per square foot has decreased by more than 30%, even though square footage has more than doubled.