Sustainability
Pitt Athletics has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices into various aspects of its operations. From facility management to event organization, the university's athletic department prioritizes environmentally conscious initiatives. This includes implementing energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction strategies, and promoting sustainable transportation options for both athletes and fans. By actively engaging in sustainable practices, Pitt Athletics not only strives to minimize its ecological footprint but also serves as a positive example within the collegiate sports community. This dedication aligns with broader efforts to foster a greener and more responsible approach to sports management, reflecting the university's commitment to environmental stewardship.
How You Can Help Make Pitt Athletics Green
- Ensure you're disposing of your waste properly by making sure to read the signage on trash/recycling/compost bins.
- Limit single-use plastics when purchasing merchandise.
- Learn Pittsburgh's recycling guidelines.
- Educate yourself on sustainability on campus, and read up on Pitt's plan to be Net Carbon Neutral by 2037!
- Travel green and save! Consider carpooling to cut down on parking cost, or taking public transit. Pitt is accessible by many transit routes with Pittsburgh Regional Transit including:
- 54 Northside
- 58 Greenfield
- 61A, 61B, 61C
- 71B
- 75 Ellsworth
- 83 Bedford Hill
- 81 Oak Hill
- Taking the T and transferring to a bus towards Oakland
Pitt Athletics Sustainability Initiatives
The Pitt Athletics Sustainability Committee comprises various student-athletes, athletics staff members, students, and sustainability educators on campus who meet and collaborate on ideas on how to make Pitt Athletics more sustainable. Goals are generally made at the beginning of each school semester and the committee meets once a month.
Pitt has hosted various 'Green Games' where volunteers from student organizations on campus help divert fans' waste to participate in at least one zero-waste game per sport! Education for fans and student tabling is also another highlight of these games. Stay tuned for information about additional upcoming Green Games!
- The currently under construction Arena and Sports Performance Complex will be LEED Gold Certified or Higher and classified as a "Green Building".
- The facility will feature approximately 64,000 square feet of green roofing and multiple energy efficient technologies.
- Victory Heights developments will be a key factor in the campus-wide rainwater reuse network.
- Victory Heights construction will use sustainable materials and processes.
Our 2024 Goals
- Organize one Green Game per sport.
- Encourage sustainability-related volunteer and service opportunities.
- Develop new hire sustainability education.
- Encourage colleague participation in "Green Offices".
- Improve signage in the Petersen Events Center food court to encourage proper waste disposal.
- A general increase in awareness of sustainability issues.
Emissions and Water Usage
With the renovations of the office suites in the Petersen Events Center, several energy efficiency additions were made to lower emissions. Check out our greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and more using Pitt Sustainability's technology.