At UMass Amherst, sustainability isn’t just a goal–it’s something we’re actively working toward every day. When it comes to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, UMass Dining is supporting campus-wide efforts that move us closer to a future powered by renewable energy.
The Carbon Zero Path
Reaching carbon zero on a big, historic campus–especially in New England’s cold climate–is a big goal. However, UMass is in the process of this through the Carbon Zero Initiative. The biggest part is transitioning from our current fossil fuel-based steam system to a modern energy system that uses water, heat pumps, and thermal energy storage that are all powered by renewable energy.
This plan was shaped with input from hundreds of students, staff, faculty, engineers, and experts, who carefully studied the options. We learned that 100% renewable energy at UMass is, in fact, possible! Now, UMass is on track to achieve carbon neutrality ahead of the 2050 statewide target.
To learn more about the Carbon Zero Initiative, visit: https://www.umass.edu/sustainability/our-commitment/carbon-zero
Food Waste to Clean Energy
Did you know that UMass Dining also plays a direct role in creating clean energy? All of our pre- and post-consumer food waste from the dining commons, Campus Center, and retail locations, is sent to Vanguard Renewables at Barstow’s Farm in Hadley. There, it’s turned into renewable energy through anaerobic digestion, while leftover nutrients are returned to the soil. It’s a true closed loop, with yesterday’s scraps helping to power tomorrow. These efforts prove that with collaboration, innovation, and commitment, even a university as large and complex as ours can lead the way toward a cleaner future.