Sustainability at Kirkwood

Sustainability at Kirkwood

Welcome to Kirkwood Community College’s climate action page. Take a look around to explore our Climate Action Plan, see our awards for sustainability, and learn more about how Kirkwood is working to create a sustainable future. Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face, and our students, faculty and staff are joining the global effort to address its impacts and work toward a greener future.

With initiatives that include sustainable practices, curriculum integration, mental health support, funding opportunities, and community partnerships, we’re building a resilient Eastern Iowa. We’re excited for you to join us on this journey!

Climate Action Plan

Kirkwood's Climate Action Plan will guide the college in its efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt to the already existing impacts of climate change. The overarching goal is to reduce the college's own natural resource consumption as well as build resilience within the institution and the communities it serves.

This plan was developed by a project team made up of a large group of administrators, faculty, staff, and students from across the college. Project team members participated in multiple workshops focusing on visioning, barriers, climate consequences, and strategic directions.

The Climate Action Plan sets the following targets for the college:

By 2030

A 40 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Increase the percentage of Kirkwood land designated as a carbon sink (prairie, forest, or wetland) from 7 percent to 9 percent. Increase Sustainability Engagement Score from a 48 to a 65. Determine the percentage of departments using sustainability course objectives in coursework, and define a target to increase. 50 percent waste diversion (up from 37 percent). Designate a Kirkwood location as a Community Resilience Hub.

 

By 2040

Net Zero Emissions

 

Click here to see the entire Climate Action Plan

Current Sustainable Initiatives

Kirkwood has been a higher education leader in green and sustainable practices for many years. Some of the college's current initiatives include:

Cabinet-approved Sustainability CommitteeGeothermal heating and coolingExisting waste infrastructure (e.g. recycling bins)Water fill stations across campusHand dryers in restroomsSustainable service ware in food areasStandardized sustainable printing practicesComposting and glass recycling at The Hotel at Kirkwood CenterLocal food sourcingCreation of the Sustainability VillageSustainable practices in existing curriculum (e.g. Agriculture, Horticulture)Student projects focusing on sustainability and climate action

 

These are just a few examples of what Kirkwood is already doing to reduce its carbon footprint. Do you have an idea of how the college can make an even bigger impact? Let us know!

Sustainability Awards and Recognitions

Kirkwood has been recognized for its sustainable practices including:

  • LEED Gold Certification – The Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa
  • 2015 Post-Secondary Sustainability Award from the US Dept. of Education, Green Ribbon School
  • Tree Campus USA Certified for ten consecutive years
  • Multiple recycling awards

Have Questions or a Great Idea?

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