SU changes temperature policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions

SU changes temperature policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissionsSeptember 25, 2008Sara Millersemortim@syr.edu

As part of its ongoing leadership in promoting and practicing activity that contributes to a more sustainable environment, Syracuse University has changed its temperature policy to conserve energy and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released through the heating and cooling processes.

By reducing the temperature of University-occupied spaces by two degrees in the heating season (Sept.15-May 15), and raising the temperature threshold one degree in the cooling season (May 16-Sept.14), the University will realize an annual reduction of 1,683 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, the equivalent emissions of providing energy to 149 homes or 308 passenger vehicles each year. Therefore, effective immediately, the new temperature policy for the heating season will have a set point at 68 degrees, and the cooling season set point will be 76 degrees. Cooling temperatures only apply where air conditioning equipment currently exists. Exceptions to the temperature settings include laboratories, research areas and art/book archives.

If an individual would like to inquire about the University’s temperature policy as it relates to his or her working or residential space, the following actions should be taken:

• Faculty and staff should contact the Zone Office (or Physical Plant), and a technician will take a temperature reading. If an issue is found, it will be corrected on a priority basis.

• Students in residence halls are to contact the main desk, their resident advisor or FixIt (443-4948) directly.

• Dining halls have maintenance staff on duty to respond to problems.

To be effective, the new temperature policy continues to be coupled with the policy on the use of air conditioners or space heaters, which limits the use and installation of window air conditioners, portable spot coolers and portable space heaters. This policy can be viewed at: http://supolicies.syr.edu/facilities/

The new temperature policy also aligns with the University’s commitment to the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, signed by Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor in February 2007, which is a pledge to further reduce the emission of greenhouse gases on campus.