Sustainability News
RecycleMania
NIU is competing with colleges and universities all across the country this spring to see who can improve their recycling the most. This 8-week competition promotes waste minimization and maximizing recycling. Visit the NIU Recycling website for more information on NIU's efforts in the tournament.
Energy Improvements at NIU
NIU has worked with Energy Systems Group through a series of performance contracts to provide energy improvements throughout campus. Some of these improvements included automated lighting systems, better insulation, upgraded HVAC systems, a new chiller plant, and solar water heaters for the Gable and Anderson indoor pools. Click HERE for the full profile of NIU improvements.
ITS Goes Green!
Information Technology Services is increasing cloud computing capabilities and expanding Wi-Fi to be campus-wide. NIU is also changing its printing policy to phase out free printing and mitigate wasteful printing practices. ITS is also implementing new "anywhere printing" where anyone with an NIU I-D can print from their wireless device or a campus computer.
NIU Today "Green Up, NIU" article
Electronics Recycling Open to the Community
Campus Recycling has taken on the task first started by the Green Team to recycle electronics from the campus and Dekalb community. Illinois State Law prohibits disposal of electronics in landfills, and recycling this "E-waste" not only prevents harmful chemicals from polluting the environment, but also helps conserve precious metals. The e-waste recycling program accepts all types of electronics from students, faculty, staff, and community members. University property is not accepted through this program and must follow NIU Property Control guidelines.
at NIU
The theme of this year's festival is The Planet in Focus. The event will again be hosted at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb and will feature films submitted by students and local talent from around northern Illinois, informational displays from sponsors and local organizations, a panel discussion of local environmental experts, and so much more! Check out the schedule for more information about the event HERE.
Launch of the new Environmental Studies degree!
The Institute for the Study of the Environment, Sustainability, and Energy offers an undergraduate minor, B.S. and a B.A. degree. This interdisciplinary major allows students to focus on different environment and sustainability issues including water, energy, non-profit organizations, government/policy, and biodiversity & environmental restoration.
Native Plant Garden in the works.
In Northern Illinois, native landscapes include prairie plants with deep root structures. Planting native plants will help replenish local water systems and encourage native species to flourish (and hopefully drive away the geese!) A group of students is working with the ESE Institute to make it happen at NIU. Visit the ESE website HERE to learn more
Interview with Alex Labee, ENVS student
Article from the Northern Star
Game Day Challenge
NIU competed with other colleges to promote recycling at home football games. The competition has inspired Campus Recycling and Athletics to team up with student groups to increase recycling at all home sporting events in the future.