LCC Marks Nearly Two Decades of Commitment to Sustainability

EUGENE, Ore. — In recognition of Climate Action Day Oct. 24, Lane Community College (LCC) is marking its commitment to sustainability for nearly two decades of climate-focused initiatives and progress. As one of the original signatories of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) in 2006, LCC has dedicated itself to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving carbon neutrality across all operations by 2050.

LCC has consistently updated and implemented its Climate Action Plan, which includes reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and increasing renewable energy generation. The plan also aims to incorporate sustainability concepts throughout the curriculum, encouraging a campus-wide culture of environmental responsibility.

“Lane Community College has been a leader in sustainability since signing the ACUPCC nearly 20 years ago,” said Luis Maggiori, Sustainability Coordinator at LCC. “Our commitment goes beyond reducing emissions; it’s about embedding sustainability into everything we do, from infrastructure upgrades to student engagement.”

LCC's recent accomplishments in sustainability include:

• Silver Certification in STARS (Sustainability Tracking and Assessment Rating System): Achieved in 2021, this certification underscores LCC’s holistic approach to sustainability across academics, campus operations, and community engagement.
• Enrollment in Oregon Energy Trust’s Strategic Energy Management Program: Since 2021, LCC has worked to reduce energy consumption in its commercial buildings, further enhancing energy efficiency across the campus.
• Bee Campus USA Certification: Achieved in 2019, this designation highlights LCC's commitment to pollinator conservation through sustainable landscaping and educational initiatives.
• Restructured Green Revolving Fund: This innovative fund, updated in 2021, provides ongoing support for new sustainability projects, reinforcing LCC’s dedication to a self-sustaining approach to climate action.

As LCC prepares to update its Climate Action Plan, the college has launched an Ideas Assessment survey to gather input on potential strategies. The update will focus on key goals such as reducing natural gas usage, decreasing single-occupant commuting, minimizing landfill waste, and expanding renewable energy generation.

“Our updated Climate Action Plan will emphasize not only reducing emissions but also achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” Maggiori added. “We also aim to enhance sustainable practices in our operations and integrate these principles into our curriculum.”

LCC encourages all students, faculty, and staff to get involved in sustainability efforts. The college offers various engagement opportunities, such as joining the Sustainability Committee and participating in discussions about future strategies.

“Everyone at LCC can make a difference,” Maggiori emphasized. “Whether it’s reducing personal energy use, participating in sustainability programs, or contributing ideas for the updated Climate Action Plan, every effort counts.”

LCC continues to implement sustainable practices to reduce its carbon footprint, such as:

• Improved Waste Management: The college restructured its surplus program in 2021, increasing revenue and reducing landfill waste.
• Upgraded Infrastructure: Recent upgrades include enhanced HVAC controls and lighting across several buildings to increase energy efficiency.
• Expanded EV Charging Stations: New electric vehicle chargers were installed at the Cottage Grove campus in 2020 and the main campus in 2023 to support green transportation options.

As Lane Community College celebrates Climate Action Day, it remains steadfast in its mission to lead by example in sustainability, environmental stewardship, and climate action.