#Sustainability #United States #Eastern Michigan University #Ypsilanti #Path Forward Initiative

Introduction

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) is steering its campus towards a sustainable and energy-efficient future through innovative initiatives such as the Path Forward Initiative. This ambitious program represents a comprehensive effort not just to assess energy consumption but to transform the entire infrastructure supporting campus utilities, ensuring a greener, more efficient environment for students and staff alike.

Key Features of the Path Forward Initiative

Launched as part of EMU's ongoing commitment to establish a more sustainable campus, the Path Forward Initiative collaborates with industry leaders, including CenTrio and the Ramboll Group. This partnership aims to modernize the university's utility infrastructure through an in-depth analysis that will guide energy decision-making for years to come.

Among the goals of the Path Forward Initiative is a significant target: achieving a reduction of 17.5% in energy consumption per square foot across the campus. This ambitious target equates to removing approximately 2,500 gasoline-powered vehicles from the roads or reducing the annual energy usage equivalent to that of 1,700 homes.

Phased Implementation

As EMU embarks on the second phase of its Energy Conservation Measure (ECM) program, the university is engaged in evaluating over 1,000 pieces of equipment across more than 50 buildings. This extensive assessment will yield detailed reports on the condition and performance of these systems, while also screening potential energy solutions that optimize sustainability outcomes.

Major Capital Improvement Projects

In parallel with the Path Forward Initiative, EMU is advancing several critical infrastructure improvement projects. More than half of the planned projects for the fiscal year 2024-2025 have already been completed, with all remaining initiatives on track. Noteworthy improvements include:

• - Enhanced utility tunnel safety and reliability through structural repairs.
• - Boiler replacements and control system upgrades designed to enhance energy efficiency and minimize emissions.
• - Comprehensive evaluations of electrical and water systems aimed at bolstering campus resilience.
• - Ongoing assessments to uncover new opportunities for operational energy savings.

Looking ahead, plans for the 2026 capital projects will expand on this foundation with even more upgrades to critical infrastructure.

Upcoming Initiatives

As part of its commitment to improving energy efficiency, EMU will also see significant upgrades completed by the summer of 2025, including:

• - Integration of LED lighting retrofits across multiple campus buildings.
• - Enhancements to building control and automation systems to further ensure long-term sustainability.

EMU is also dedicated to improving its rating in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) STARS program, which measures sustainability in higher education. Currently, the university holds a bronze STARS rating achieved in 2022, positioning it among the top 5% of universities in the U.S. Such recognition highlights the university's dedication to sustainability.

Student Engagement in Sustainability

In an effort to foster a culture of sustainability on campus, EMU has also introduced a student sustainability internship program. This initiative offers students valuable hands-on experience in data collection for STARS assessments, thereby involving them directly in the university's environmental planning and policy efforts.

Conclusion

With the Path Forward Initiative and associated capital improvement projects, EMU is not only enhancing its infrastructure but also reinforcing its role as a leader in sustainability within higher education. By committing resources and efforts towards reducing energy usage, EMU is paving the way for future generations to enjoy a healthier, more sustainable campus environment. To stay informed about EMU's sustainability endeavors, visit emich.edu/sustainability.