CU Boulder achieved a 2017 diversion rate of 48% ─ over halfway to our 2020 goal. Achieving success will mean utilizing the increased capacity of the Grounds & Recycling Operations Center, increasing our composting of pre- and post-consumer food waste in the dining halls, and improving campus infrastructure that promotes zero-waste behavior.

In 2004, students at CU-Boulder agreed to use student fees to construct four new buildings, with the stipulation that all reached a minimum LEED Silver rating. Since then the university has mandated that all new buildings meet a LEED Gold “Plus” rating, which meets LEED Gold standards while taking extra measures regarding net-zero energy, waste reduction, and water conservation. Currently, 22% of campus operates under LEED standards.

Greenhouse gas emissions have flatlined in recent years; since 2015 greenhouse gas emissions have been projected to decrease by more than 16,000 metric tons equivalent of CO2 each year. This is due in part to projects like the renovation of our cogeneration facilities and the installation of the 500 kW solar farm on East Campus.