OGDEN, Utah — Weber State University is being recognized for its success in proactive efforts to become carbon neutral by 2040, a decade ahead of its original goal.
The American Association of State Colleges and Universities selected WSU to receive the 2023 AASCU Excellence & Innovation Award for Sustainability and Sustainable Development.
The university earned the honor specifically for its 5-point Carbon Neutrality Strategy initiative, selected by the awards committee for its outstanding results and potential to serve as a model for other institutions.
“We’re extremely proud of this achievement,” said Brad Mortensen, WSU president. “We’re 10 years ahead of schedule in reaching our carbon neutral goal, but we’re even more excited that our model is catching the eye of other institutions across the country who take sustainability seriously and are looking to replicate our success here in Utah.”
In 2007, Weber State formalized its dedication to sustainability by signing the American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment, aiming to eliminate emissions and become carbon neutral by 2050, now moved to 2040.
As of last year, Weber has cut electricity consumption by 35%, natural gas consumption by 43% and total greenhouse gas emissions by 42%, saving over $21 million. By 2038, WSU anticipates having converted every building to all-electric systems.
WSU has also incorporated sustainability across its curriculum, with key faculty and staff sharing the knowledge and skills students need to contribute to sustainable communities and providing opportunities to learn more, even outside the classroom.
Weber also works with community partners to boost sustainable practices, helping residents reduce their emissions and carbon footprints by utilizing the same strategies implemented on WSU campuses. The university also hosts the Intermountain Sustainability Summit, and co-hosts Utah Climate Action Week and Solve Climate by 2030 events each year.
“Our sustainability work has garnered a lot of attention because we’ve significantly cut our greenhouse gas emissions, saved millions, and we have a detailed strategy for transitioning our campuses to carbon neutral by 2040,” said Jennifer Bodine, WSU sustainability manager. “We all win when we share best practices so we’re thrilled to get the word out and see more people follow suit.”
AASCU will formally recognize WSU’s achievements at a ceremony this November. Last month, Mortensen joined Justin Owen, WSU energy manager, and Jacob Cain, operations director, to present Weber State’s key successes at AASCU’s Sustainability Solutions Symposium in Washington, D.C.Author:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.eduContact:
Bryan Magaña, public relations director
801-626-7948, bryanmagana@weber.edu
