Habitats: Guide to On-Campus Living - Tufts University

C A M P U S G R E E N L I V I N G G U I D E
Tufts University prides itself on its environmental commitments and has taken many steps
to reduce its energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, waste and water, and increase recycling
and composting and environmentally preferable purchasing practices. Tufts University committed
to and beat the Kyoto Protocol target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 7%
below 1990 levels by 2012. As a student you are a key player in helping Tufts meet its emissions
reduction goals and be a “green,” environmentally friendly campus. The following list
details ways in which your actions contribute to making Tufts green. As an active citizen of
Tufts we encourage you to not only follow these tips, but help remind your friends and hallmates
to do so as well.
Heating Control – Many rooms have control valves that let you control the heat in each
room. A lower number on the control valve is lower heat and the “snow flake” setting is the
coolest. The target heating temperature is 68 degrees. If a room is very often too hot or too
cold please go to http://go.tufts.edu/facilities and click on Online Service Request to report
the problem.
Windows – Please do not leave your windows open during the winter months. It is impossible
to deliver target temperatures when windows are left open. If you would like to air out
your room, open all windows for about 5–10 minutes to create a cross-breeze and then shut
them. The longer windows are kept open during the winter, the more energy is being
wasted. In addition to wasting heat, leaving windows open in the winter may cause pipes to
freeze and break, causing water damage to your room. Do not forget that windows must be
shut completely when you leave campus for the weekend or break.
Refrigerators/Microfridges – Please keep refrigerators clean and de-iced. Be sure to
empty and unplug them when away for winter/spring breaks. In order to conserve energy
students are encouraged to share with roommate(s) and use the smallest feasible size.
Leaks – Leaks, constant drips, or running toilets can be a significant waste of water.
If you find a leak in the residence hall bathrooms or kitchens, please go to http://operations
.tufts.edu/facilities/service-requests/ to report the problem.
Lights – Halogen lamps are not allowed. Please use compact fluorescent bulbs in all studentoccupied
areas. If you would like to exchange your regular bulb (incandescent) with a compact
fluorescent bulb, bring your old bulb to the Office of Sustainability in the rear of Miller
Hall. Please shut off lights when not in your room. Hallway lights must remain on for safety.
Appliances and Electronics – Please remember to turn off all appliances when not in use.
Use a power strip to plug in electronics, like TVs, printers, DVD players, and radios, and
turn off the power strip when you are out of the room. If buying new electronics, choose
ones that are EnergyStar certified (www.energystar.gov).
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