The Office of Research Programs Becomes Bronze-Certified in the Sustainable Office Program!

The Office of Sustainability has recently awarded the Office of Research Programs a bronze Sustainable Office Program certification! This is the ninth office to be certified in the program since the program was launched in spring of 2015. At the moment, there are many other offices in the certification process. The Office of Research Programs has helped Lehigh get one step closer to becoming a more sustainable campus, is your office interested in making a difference? The Sustainable Office Program is a voluntary, self-guided program designed for staff to take the lead on promoting environmental practices in the workplace. By taking action in a variety of topic areas, offices like the Office of Research Programs can reduce their environmental footprint, be responsible representatives of university’s resources, and contribute to Lehigh’s sustainability goals and commitments. A bronze certification indicates that the office has completed over 30 of the sustainable office actions. These actions are categorized by ‘Participation & Engagement,’ ‘Climate & Energy,’ ‘Food & Dining,’ ‘Purchasing,’ ‘Community Building & Social Equity,’ ‘Transportation,’ ‘Waste,’ ‘Water,’ and ‘Events & Meetings.’ In order for a department or office to be certified, they must complete actions in each of these categories. Each certified office appoints a Sustainable Office Representative. Diane Mason, the representative for the Office of Research Programs, enthusiastically registered the Office of Research Programs for the program. When asked why her office decided to join the program Diane said, “When I first read the article in the Brown & White about this program, I felt this is the direction Lehigh should go and I wanted to be a part of it. After talking with my director, who also felt it was important, it just became easier to get others on board. The program helps us be aware of even small changes we can make on a daily basis to both practice and promote sustainable living." There is visible environmental consciousness on the Lehigh campus, as exhibited here by the success of this program. We encourage the Office of Research Programs to celebrate the good news by sharing their accomplishments online and with coworkers! As the Sustainable Office Program Assistant I am very excited to work with more offices to make Lehigh more sustainable. We look forward to seeing more offices and departments join the program. Let us know your office is interested in the program by filling out the registration form. A Sustainable Office team member will further discuss the program with your office before beginning.