Emory Named Georgia ‘Conservationist of the Year’

Emory has been named the “2008 Distinguished Conservationist of the Year” by the Georgia Conservancy. The annual award is the highest honor bestowed by the conservancy and is given in recognition of Emory’s efforts to incorporate sustainability as a way to restore the global ecosystem, promote healthy living, and reduce the University’s impact on its surroundings.

“It’s a great honor for Emory to be recognized in this way by the Georgia Conservancy,” says President James Wagner. “Emory’s sustainability vision is a core commitment of the University with deep roots in our culture and history.”

Emory’s environmental initiatives include a 100-percent alternatively fueled transportation system, 54 percent of its campus dedicated as green space, and 300,000 gallons of storm water runoff collected annually and recycled for landscaping.

Also of note are sustainable building practices that have resulted in the University having the most square footage of any campus in the nation certified for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.