On February 5th, liaisons representing offices from across WashU campuses gathered to celebrate participation in the Green Office Program and recognized sustainability leaders during the 4th annual Green Carpet Awards. The Green Office Program encourages the adoption of policies and practices that reduce the environmental impacts of office operations. This highly anticipated event recognized offices for their sustainability achievements and participation in the program.
A total of 95 offices were recognized at this ceremony, 15 of which are new to the program. Office sizes range from two people all the way up to 150 people. All types of organizations are represented within the program, from campus operations to academic offices, as well as administrative teams, research facilities, and libraries. Nearly 2,000 employees are currently working in a certified “green” office that has committed to best practices that prioritize environmental sustainability.
Included in the Green Carpet Award ceremony was the recognition of sustainability leadership across WashU. The following leaders were recognized for their achievements in sustainability for 2019:
Cody Azota was recognized for his leadership in sustainable landscape planning, design, and implementation. His rich knowledge of plants matched with a passion for innovation has been instrumental in advancing WashU’s exemplary landscape program.
Laurie Brady was recognized for her passionate and professional approach in leading the Office Supply Exchange. Her dedication to sustainability through reuse and recirculation is highlighted by her collaboration across campus in an otherwise decentralized environment.
The Division of Oncology was recognized for their exceptional work in engaging their 1,500 employees in sustainability initiatives, like the Green Office Program, plastic bag recycling, and more.
Sophia Dossin was recognized for her work in the development of RESET, the Renewable Energy Student Engagement Team, which provided opportunities for students to learn about the renewable energy industry. She has also been a leader of the student group Net Impact and served as a mentor through the business fraternity Phi Gamma Nu.
New this year, a “Student’s Choice Award” was established, giving students the opportunity to recognize exceptional work that is important to student priorities in sustainability. On behalf of the student body, the Student Environmental Council (an entity of the Student Union) honored Dining Services for working with students to inform the implementation of a variety of sustainable policies. Highlighted policies include a shift to providing straws only upon request, and offering post-consumer compost collection at the Danforth University Center and Parkside Cafe.
2019 Certified Green Offices: Platinum
2019 Certified Green Offices – Gold
2019 Certified Green Offices – Silver
The award ceremony was a certified Green Event and showcased many elements of green event planning including: a plant-forward menu with locally-sourced ingredients; reusable Greenware dishes (utilizing the Greenware program); awards and plaques made from reclaimed materials by local artisans; door prizes that support sustainable life styles (reusable straws and cutlery sets); reusable nametags; and promoting programs such as Rheaply, WashU Rides, and the Active Commuter Hub.
For more information on how to participate in the Green Office Program, visit this page.
Are you part of a lab instead of an office? Learn about the new Green Labs program here!