Dal lauded for energy efficiency initiatives

Dalhousie has received a gold star for being green.

Make that an Energy Star.

Dal was one of 10 organizations celebrated for its excellence in promoting Energy Star products and initiatives at the 2011 Energy Star Market Transformation Awards held earlier this month in Ottawa. The recipients were announced by the Government of Canada to recognize leadership in promoting Energy Star products, technologies and services. Some of the other award recipients included Sears Canada Inc., Whirlpool Canada LP and London Drugs Ltd.

Energy efficiency

Energy Star is the international symbol used for products that meet or surpass premium levels of energy efficiency. Its use is monitored by the Government of Canada’s Natural Resource Department’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Dal is the first university in Canada to participate in Energy Star.

“We are 100 per cent pleased with this award,” says Rochelle Owen, director of the Office of Sustainability at Dalhousie University. “It inspires us to plan for more ways to promote Energy Star products and services in and around Dal."

Dal joined the Energy Star program in 2009 and the Office of Sustainability has promoted Energy Star products in a variety of ways including training workshops, procurement documentation and social marketing. They've also collaborated with key purchasers at Dal including Facilities Management, Housing and Conference Services, Purchasing, Information Technology Services and the Student Union. Now things like vending machines, clothe dryers and office lights are examined for energy efficiency before they’re purchased.

Greenhouse gases

"Choosing an Energy Star product is a simple way to save money and reduce greenhouse gases. We’re delighted to receive this award for our activities like Energy Star Jeopardy, phantom power demonstrations and various workshops. We have more activities planned for the future that involve both students and staff at Dal," says Ms. Owen.

The Energy Star symbol identifies specific products that meet or surpass premium levels of energy efficiency. It can be found on almost 40 types of products and on models all over the world. Dal's involvement in the Energy Star program is detailed in The Campus Green Guide (PDF).