The University of Utah is setting an example through commitments and responses to key climate issues and is implementing innovative, home-grown solutions for creating a more responsible, strong world in which to live and learn. Communicating our initiatives and measuring our progress is essential to catalyzing positive actions on our campus.
University Plans that Incorporate Sustainability
University of Utah Strategic Plan
The University of Utah's Strategic Plan includes ensuring the long-term viability of the University through key parameters such as improving the U’s impact on the environment and promoting efficiency across campus operations. Sustainability is also one of the seven core values of the institution.
Campus Master Plan
The 2008 Campus Master Plan gives physical form to the University's mission to engage, prepare, and partner with our neighbors, national and international friends, and campus students, faculty and staff. The plan includes the guiding principles of environmental, social and economic sustainability into campus planning, design and operations.
Air Quality Task Force Strategic Plan
The University of Utah is committed to working with the community as a leader in solving air quality issues in the Salt Lake Valley and the state of Utah. In 2015, the University released the Air Quality Task Force describing emission mitigations strategies.
Energy and Environmental Stewardship Initiative: 2010 Climate Action Plan
The 2010 Climate Action Plan outlines strategies to help the University reach carbon neutrality by the year 2050 by defining goals, developing strategies and tactics, and creating a blueprint for action in the areas of curriculum, research, energy, transportation, water, waste and food. This plan was updated on a rolling basis by topic area over the years. In July of 2019, President Watkins formed a Climate Commitment Task Force to update the Climate Action Plan. A link to Task Force progress will be posted on this page as it is available.
Bicycle Master Plan
With the growth of active transportation, the 2010 Bicycle Master Plan recommends various bicycle-friendly policies and programs to promote bicycle ridership among students, faculty and staff. It emphasizes both campus pathways and on-street facilities that connect the core campus area with surrounding neighborhoods.