GVSU Named One of the Greenest Schools in Country

Grand Valley State University has been named one of the country’s greenest universities for the fourth year in a row by Sierra Club.

GVSU is the highest-ranking Michigan university on the list.

Grand Valley is included in the Sierra’s Club’s annual list of “Coolest Schools,” a list that ranks schools that have a strong commitment to environmental improvement and are making significant efforts to operate sustainably.

Grand Valley placed 34th out of 153 institutions, and ranked highest in the energy and waste categories.

The ranking was based on scores given to universities that completed a questionnaire on measurable environmental goals and achievements, presented by the Sierra Club, Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, Sustainable Endowments Institute and Princeton Review.

Norman Christopher, executive director of the Office of Sustainable Practices, said the recognition is a reflection of the collective efforts of the entire campus community.

“Empowered students, faculty and staff members make sustainable choices daily," said Christopher. "It can be seen everywhere — in the classroom, in the living centers, and on and off campus. The importance they place on sustainability is why we are listed among the top greenest schools in the nation."