Salem State University & sustainability

Salem State is committed to instilling a culture of sustainability across our programs and educating a diverse community of learners to contribute responsibly and actively to a global society. Some of our initiatives include:

  • Goal to be carbon neutral by 2050
  • Divested from fossil fuels in 2018
  • Tripling our solar power on campus with new installations in winter/spring of 2019 on our Library, Gassett Fitness Center and Marsh Residence Hall
  • Addressing transportation-related emissions through the Zagster bike share program which provides free rides to students and employees
  • Compost all organics from our dining halls
  • Ten academic departments offer sustainability courses with three concentrations
  • Five buildings have achieved LEED certification
  • Reduced greenhouse gas emissions 21% from 2004 – 2018
  • Reduced water use 22% from 2014 – 2018
  • Single-use plastic bags are banned on campus and throughout the City of Salem