Rowan University garners another 'green' award

May 22, 2008

The New Jersey Clean Communities Council on May 22 recognized Rowan University with the 2008 Excellence in Education Award, given in recognition of the University's commitment, enthusiasm and community pride through cleanups, educational programs or projects that encourage the proper handling of solid waste, according to the council. The organization recognized Rowan for its "Clean and Green Day" a regularly held event that engages students, faculty and staff in cleaning up the campus and planting shrubs and flowers for beautification. This event coupled with other sustainability measures, including recycling projects, is an important component of the education process for everyone in the Rowan community.

The non-profit council, funded by the Clean Communities Act and private donations, works to implement a statewide program of public information and education that will change the attitudes that cause littering and the irresponsible handing of solid waste, according to the organization. In addition to providing a clearinghouse and forum for information related to environmental concerns, the council works with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and Treasury to oversee the implementation of litter abatement programs in 559 municipalities and 21 counties, according to the council.

This is just the latest of many awards Rowan has received for its "green" efforts.

In April 2008, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized Rowan as the 2007-2008 Individual Conference Champion for purchasing more green power than any other school in the New Jersey Athletic Conference.

In 2007, Rowan received:

• The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection's Governor's Environmental Excellence Award in the "Clean Air" category. The State applauded Rowan for its steps to fight air pollution and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, citing a wide range of efforts, including purchasing wind power, implementing a landscaping plan that planted numerous trees and native plant species and constructing a cogeneration facility to supplement energy use. The New Jersey Corporation for Advanced Technology and the New Jersey State League of Municipalities co-sponsored the awards, according to the State.

• The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, Office of Clean Energy's New Jersey Clean Energy School of the Year award, recognizing the school for its efforts related to promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including purchasing 25 percent of its electricity from wind power sources.

• The United States Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Quality Award for placing third nationally in waste minimization in RecycleMania in 200

• The EPA Green Power Partnership Award for purchasing 25 percent of the electricity Rowan uses from wind-generated sources.

• The New Jersey Clean Energy Award for the clean energy the institution purchases.

For more information on Rowan University's comprehensive environmental efforts, go to www.rowan.edu/RUgreen.


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