From plant based menus to lightbulbs to solar power, RSSP invests significantly in measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy use.
- University Village carport solar system is the largest on campus and produces 700,000 kWh of carbon-free renewable electricity each year, providing 20% of the power needed by residents
- LED lights continue to be installed throughout all RSSP buildings, saving energy and waste generated by replacing bulbs. LED lights are prioritized as new buildings are constructed and existing buildings are refreshed
- Solar water heating provides almost all the hot water for showers at Maximino Martinez Commons
- Solar powered off-the-grid lights were installed around Clark Kerr Campus building 21, improving the safety for staff and residents.
- An annual energy savings competition is managed in the residential halls using this interactive dashboard provided through the energy department on campus, as shown below.
- Submeters at Cheney, Cunningham, Deutsch, & Ehrman record energy saving metrics associated with the implementation of LED lighting fixtures. The success of submetering will be expanded to other buildings.
- With major participation from RSSP, Student Affairs took second in the Cool Campus Challenge in 2019, helping UC Berkeley win the title of “Coolest UC”.
- Scope 3 emissions from Cal Dining’s food procurement are tracked through the Menus of Change University Research Collaborative. Cal Dining is dedicated to reducing greenhouse gases through plant- forward menus.