View the One VCU Sustainability draft recommendations here.
A roadmap for achieving meaningful and impactful environmental sustainability goals at VCU and VCU Health
The United Nations World Commission on Environment and Development defines sustainability as “the ability to serve the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” As an institution known for shaping and impacting health, Virginia Commonwealth University’s (VCU) leadership in sustainability affects not only the natural environment but human health, health equity, and economic vitality.
The One VCU Sustainability Plan, a first-of-its-kind plan for VCU, is designed to embed sustainability into the One VCU culture at both the university and health system; leverage resources to restore and protect the natural environment for our students, patients, employees and community; and advance sustainability in education, research and healthcare. It identifies a path forward for VCU and VCU Health to interconnect complex issues in order to sustainably deliver on its mission as well as support the well-being of future generations.
The One VCU Sustainability Plan reflects VCU’s aspiration and recognizes the scale of these challenges – building upon a wide range of efforts that are already underway.
We want to hear from you!
While the One VCU Sustainability Plan has been published, we will continue to seek feedback about how the university and health system can continue to prioritize sustainable action in operations, administration, research and academics.
Blog posts
Celebrating Earth Month
April 12, 2024
The first Earth Day in the U.S. was held in 1970 and mobilized 20 million Americans to demonstrate and advocate for environmental and public health protections that year. Over the past 54 years, Earth Day has grown into “Earth Month,” and throughout the month of April, people around the world can participate in environmentally-friendly activities and actions. Read more.
Seeking feedback on the One VCU Sustainability Plan draft recommendations
February 20, 2024
We’re seeking feedback from the VCU community and the public on our draft recommendations that will form the foundation of the One VCU Sustainability Plan. Learn more and share your feedback.
Synthetic fibers in the fashion industry: Unraveling environmental impact and the shift toward sustainable clothing
December 7, 2023
In a world where trends change faster than the seasons, fast fashion has become a dominant force in the global clothing industry. It offers consumers the latest styles at affordable prices, but there's a hidden cost that extends far beyond our wardrobes. Read more.
Current sustainability achievements and initiatives
STARS Gold Rating
In November 2024, VCU earned a STARS Gold Rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. STARS measures sustainability achievements in academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration, and innovation and leadership.
23 LEED certified buildings
VCU and VCU Health have 23 LEED certified buildings, an independent verification of a building’s green features, allowing for the design, construction, operations and maintenance of resource-efficient, high-performing, healthy and cost-effective buildings.
Alternative Transportation Program
The alternative transportation program is designed to reduce single-occupancy vehicles use on campus, decrease the demand for parking, and increase savings for students, employees and the environment. Highlights include RamBikes; unlimited local transportation access via GRTC; and more.
