Buildings account for 40% of campus energy use. Pitt is currently working to reduce its environmental footprint in existing residence halls and University-leased apartments, while new buildings aim for optimum efficiency.
Basic Needs
The University of Pittsburgh is committed to supporting all students in meeting basic needs, including access to adequate food, safe housing, and other necessities. Basic needs security supports student physical and mental health, academic performance, and professional development. Learn more about the University's Basic Needs Committee.
Energy & Water Use
As part of the University’s sustainability efforts, Pitt participates in the Pittsburgh 2030 District with goals to reduce energy and water use intensities by 50% below the national average by 2030.
For more information on energy & water use reduction at Pitt, visit the Pitt Sustainability website.
University Housing is in the process of upgrading building systems to achieve optimum energy efficiency. Look for new lighting and water features coming to your residence hall!
Grounds & Landscaping
The University of Pittsburgh’s Grounds Department works hard to ensure campus grounds are beautiful and sustainable year-round. Efforts are underway to reduce lawn cover, plant native species and trees, and capture more stormwater.
Bouquet Gardens and Sutherland Hall feature rain gardens that help manage stormwater runoff, preventing it from entering the municipal stormwater and sewage system. Instead, stormwater is redirected into the ground to refill natural water table levels and the Oakland aquifer.
Laundry
All campus washing machines are Energy Star certified and use 14-24 gallons of water per cycle. Save energy by only washing full loads. Washing on cold reduces washing machine energy by 90% by eliminating the need to heat water. Cold water also preserves the integrity of most clothing fabrics, allowing your clothes to last longer.
Drying clothes is energy intensive. Campus dryers feature several settings to dry clothes on lower heat settings to reduce energy and preserve your clothes. Clean the dryer lint screen before and after every use to maintain optimum air flow and energy transfer.
Consider using a drying rack to air-dry your clothes and reduce your energy use!
LEED Buildings
Mark A. Nordenberg Hall is the University’s first residence hall to receive a LEED certification, achieving LEED Silver for its design and construction.
Nordenberg Hall features low-flow plumbing fixtures, LED lighting throughout the building, and many of its materials are made from recycled content that were sourced and manufactured within 500 miles of Pittsburgh. Additionally, all adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, flooring, carpets, and agrifiber materials used in the building have low- or no- volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are known to cause health risks. Stop by the third-floor patio to enjoy some fresh air and sunlight on the new recycled plastic patio furniture!
The University is committed to pursuing LEED or WELL Certifications for all new residence halls and administrative buildings, as well as major renovations.
Lighting
Several residence halls and apartments feature efficient LED lighting systems. Pitt Housing is currently upgrading lighting in all halls to LED bulbs.
Low-Flow Fixtures
Low-flow fixtures are currently, or actively being, installed in bathrooms in our residence halls and University-leased apartments to reduce water use from sinks, showers, and toilets.
Water Bottle Filling Stations
Many traditional water fountains have been updated to include bottle filling dispensers. Using a reusable water bottle instead of a disposable or single-use container reduces waste and keeps you hydrated throughout the day. Find a filling station in your residence hall or an administrative building near you!
The University of Pittsburgh is committed to fostering a safe and healthy community, which includes ensuring clean drinking water for Pitt faculty, staff, students, and residents in surrounding neighborhoods. Pitt’s Environmental Health and Safety Department regularly tests drinking water on campus to verify water quality. Water quality in all of Pitt’s residence halls is also tested annually. Learn more about the University’s water testing.
Zero Waste Programming
The University is working to reduce landfill waste, increase composting, and embrace a circular, zero waste mindset. Learn more about our Zero Waste programming.