Out of the top 25 football schools, the University of Notre Dame ranked for No. 11 for our green efforts! SaveOnEnergy.com, one of the longest-standing online energy comparison websites, compared the Associated Press’ Top 25 preseason list to see how the universities stack up in their sustainability efforts.
In order to properly rank the universities, the team examined each school’s stadium sustainability efforts, campus green initiatives, environmental studies programs, number of active green organizations, waste diversion rate and amount spent on locally grown and organic food. Each category was weighted based on how significant they were.
Although ranked No. 17 on the AP Top 25 preseason list, the University of Notre Dame tied with the University of Oregon for the 11th spot when it comes to our sustainability efforts. We were recognized for our Game Day Recycling Program where recycling containers are placed throughout the tailgate lots and the stadium and also for having dozens of Fighting Irish students distributing recycling bags to fans and answering questions regarding recycling. We were also recognized for participating in RecycleMania, having LEED gold certified buildings, providing alternative transportation to students, having four active green organizations on campus and offering various degrees related to environmental studies. Our waste diversion rate (42%) and percentage of food budget spent on locally grown or organic foods (40%) helped boost our ranking as well.
Out of a total of 27 points, we received 18.6 on the green ratings chart.