Vision

What might a Sustainable Mason look like in 20 years?

  • Mason is carbon-neutral, employing all possible renewable energy sources before purchasing renewable energy credits to offset remaining emissions
  • Has an active and solvent Sustainability Endowment Fund to fund capital projects, research fellowships, and grant-matching opportunities is in place
  • All new buildings are constructed with low-impact development standards and innovative practices using whole-systems thinking
  • All old buildings are reused and renovated to the highest standards of efficiency and livability in mind
  • Open space has been preserved and diversified into various types of uses, to accommodate the varied needs of an active campus community
  • Affordable and healthy temporary and permanent housing is made available for faculty and staff who wish to reduce their commute time to work
  • All students are required to participate in a minimum number of service learning hours to promote sustainability on campus in order to graduate; all students are exposed to sustainability principles in their coursework where applicable
  • Fleet vehicles are all run on biofuels or electricity
  • Mason's campuses are walkable and bikable not only on campus but getting to and from campus; electric shuttles are provided for on-campus transportation where possible
  • Organic, local, and alternative food options are available to all on-campus diners
  • Mason recycles a majority of our total waste by weight
  • Sustainable purchasing policies inform and enforce low-impact options for all major items purchased on campus
  • Fair trade, organic, and sweatshop-free products are the standard practice when providing goods and services to the campus community
  • The campus is a functional self-sustaining city in its own right, making it an enjoyable place to live, work, and relax by employing smart design practices for sustainable communities
  • All employees of the university are treated with respect and paid a living wage appropriate for the surrounding area
  • All faculty and staff are encouraged to lead one community-based service activity that includes their students every year and integrates real-world learning opportunities


Link to the Sustainability Homepage