The Operations and Facilities Management department currently plans, maintains, and manages 62 campus buildings and 9.2 million building gross square feet. Washington University School of Medicine building space on the campus increased by 65% in the last decade, and the pace of this growth continues exponentially with the addition of new buildings and important renovations.
Department staff is dedicated to stewardship of the school’s physical assets and promotion of the campus environment for the benefit of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
To that end, OFMD has created a Sustainability Strategic Plan as an expression of its commitment to sustainability and to report on and plan sustainable practices in planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining the School of Medicine’s physical environment.
Other Resources:
School of Medicine Rheaply User Guide
The plan is characterized by OFMD’s campus responsibilities to
The Culture of Sustainability
Empowering OFMD staff through education, assignments, training, and growth opportunities is the foundation for OFMD to realize sustainability through campus design, management, stewardship, and operation of the physical resources. OFMD recognizes progress on sustainability and showcases it through staff achievement awards.
Energy and Emissions
Design and operate the School of Medicine’s energy systems and buildings to reduce university Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and continue to develop goals beyond 2020.
Sustainable Buildings and Landscapes
Become a model among peers in the sustainable design and management of School of Medicine buildings and landscapes.
Healthy Food
Provide the campus community with healthy food that is locally and sustainably sourced.
Waste Management
Reduce chemical use and increase the diversion of solid waste from landfills.
Transportation
Maintain or exceed the current School of Medicine profile of 47% of students, faculty and staff using modes of transportation other than single occupancy vehicles when commuting to or traveling through the medical campus.
Engagement
Funding a position to lead and coordinate sustainability activities. Regularly communicate about sustainability activity and its value to the School of Medicine, including at departmental meetings, regular operational interactions, service surveys, monthly newsletters, and targeted signage and sustainability communication. Encourage OFMD staff to contribute to and engage in the campus community, the neighborhoods that surrounds the campus, and their own communities.