Sustainability

SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

Every day, students, faculty, staff and community members step on the campus of Kent State University at Stark where the care of the environment is evident from the moment they arrive.

As one of the campus's seven core values to "respect and protect the campus green space and our region's ecological environment," Kent State Stark is committed to reducing the environmental impacts of campus operations and promoting environmental sustainability.
 

Tree Campus USA

Kent State Stark has been named a Tree Campus USA University by the Tree Campus USA program sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

Pond & Wetland Research Area

The pond, an original fixture of the farmland purchased by Kent State University in 1967, was re-established as an EPA-approved wetland research area in 2007. The update included the addition of indigenous plants and wildlife, along with a gazebo and walking path.

Evolution Garden

The evolution garden is one component of our Green Space Initiative where we provide experiential learning opportunities to our undergraduate students, local K-12 students, and the public.

Recycling & Waste Minimization

As one of the largest recyclers in Stark County, the Kent State Stark community recycles more than 62 tons of paper, plastic, aluminum and glass each year, as reported by the Stark County Regional Planning Commission. Each campus office and public space has recycling containers.

Energy Conservation

Kent State Stark is presently working with The Brewer-Garrett Company, an Energy Service Company, under the auspices of Ohio House Bill 7 to implement Ohio House Bill 251 goals. HB 251 requires all Ohio state office buildings to achieve a 20% reduction in energy consumption by the year 2014. This campus-wide design build energy conservation program will actually achieve a guaranteed 37% reduction in energy consumption at Kent State Stark.