Explore the present — and future — of energy conservation and sustainable practices at JWU. We collaborate with students, faculty and staff to develop innovative solutions that enhance environmental stewardship and responsible resource use. By striving to build a greener tomorrow, we hope others will be inspired to do the same.
Building a More Sustainable Campus
Since its formation in 2013, JWU Providence’s Energy Conservation Office (ECO) has spearheaded impactful initiatives to create a more sustainable campus, from a campuswide LEED-certification program to comprehensive recycling and energy-reduction projects.
JWU ECO plays a crucial role in transforming our campus into a welcoming, eco-friendly and adaptable space that meets both academic and student needs. Our dedicated warehouse space allows us to recycle a wide range of waste streams, including plastic films, e-waste, and metal scrap, further reducing our environmental impact. In addition, our recent partnership with a local composting organization has expanded composting efforts on campus, reinforcing our commitment to waste diversion.
Environmental sustainability has never been more important. With rising global temperatures, sea levels and emissions, reducing our carbon footprint is crucial for our future.
“Save The Bay works to protect animals in the Narragansett Bay with the goal of restoring habitats in our area and educating people on why it’s important to respect our environment.” Animal Science major Haley Sangillo ’27 shares why her summer internship is shaping her own future.
Johnson & Wales University is going green inside and out, and the shift — from the cafeteria to the curriculum — is viewed by faculty and students alike as a necessity for survival in a changing world.
Our Mission
JWU’s Sustainability & Energy Conservation office is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where every student feels valued, supported and empowered. Rooted in our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, we strive to design and maintain campus spaces that reflect and celebrate the richness of our community’s diverse perspectives and experiences.
Our mission is to drive campus initiatives that support our commitment to a greener future — advancing energy-efficient infrastructure, expanding green spaces, and fostering a culture of sustainability. By leading these efforts, we aim to inspire and equip the next generation of changemakers to integrate sustainability into their academic and professional pursuits.
JWU’s Sustainability & Energy Conservation office envisions a campus that leads by example in environmental responsibility, resource conservation and community engagement. Our goal is to create a future where our campus operates efficiently, reduces its environmental footprint and fosters a strong culture of sustainability among students, faculty and staff.
We are dedicated to educating and empowering the campus community to be proactive stewards of shared resources. By fostering sustainable habits and encouraging active participation in community service, we seek to extend our impact beyond campus, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and resilient future for both our institution and the surrounding community.
Through our commitment to reducing the energy use index across all buildings, we align with local, state, and national energy reduction policies, continuously improving campus-wide efficiency. Our goal is to achieve a 60-80% diversion rate, ensuring responsible waste management and a significant reduction in landfill contributions.
JWU accolades include LEED certification, Tree Campus (Arbor Day Foundation), BeeCampus USA, RePower PVD and the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).
