As the iCAP 2020 says, "Using information gathered from capital projects, faculty members and researchers can collaborate with F&S to develop a reference database of calibrated energy models for campus buildings. This might be the product of student classroom projects. The campus could then use these models to prioritize building retrofits and determine the preferred level of improvements (i.e., envelope versus mechanicals) for each building." (Page 41).
The Zero Waste iCAP Team is actively pursuing the use of reusable service options for campus facilities which serve food at any capacity. In a study conducted by the Good2Go team, most UIUC students are generally uninterested in the sustainability benefits of reusable containers but are rather enticed by the convenience factor.
iSEE is excited to host a TED Talk: Eco-Edition series. Together, participants will view a TED Talk, followed by a guided discussion and roundtable. Everyone is welcome to attend. Learn, discuss, and connect with peers in a casual, social setting. Grab your favorite snack and get comfortable! Topic and hosts will vary each month.
In connection with the Resilient Landscape Strategy and the Illinois Climate Action Plan, this project is aimed at enhancing one of the few water features on campus—the Dorner Drive Retention Pond. This rainwater collection site is also a destination for several students who like to picnic on the side of the pond, and it is immediately adjacent to the Red Oak Rain Garden (RORG). This project is to renew the Dorner Drive pond and incorporate native plants throughout the surrounding area, to enhance the sustainability and increase wildlife habitat.
The iCAP objective #6.1 is: Broaden the availability of sustainability education across the entire curriculum, beginning with first-year student orientation and continuing through commencement, with at least one of four proposed methods implemented by FY24.
The iCAP 2020 objective 7.5 is to "Support programs to develop love of nature and sustainability among children, with an annual Youth Sustainability Summit led by local teenagers with guidance and mentoring from campus and community sustainability leaders." The responsible campus unit for championing this objective is UI Extension.
The iCAP 2020 objective 7.2 is that "The Illini Union and Illini Union Board commit to 80% of their events qualifying as sustainable by FY24." The responsible campus unit for championing this objective is the Illini Union.
The goal of this project is to successfully restore the low-mow site at Orchard Downs Housing Facility to a meadow garden that has more function and biodiversity. This project will incorporate at least 25 native plant species, create habitat for wildlife and pollinators, and increase biodiversity overall. Other goals of this project are to give students hands-on experience and restoration skills. Additionally, it will be important to educate students and the community about Native American Culture through the land acknowledgement.
Based upon building energy modeling and actual results from residential projects we believe a 20-30% reduction in energy usage is achievable when the building envelope is properly installed and verified. We have many buildings on campus where the envelope should be inspected, tested, and appropriately improved to address the energy lost through improper installation and or maintenance.
Funded in Spring 2021, this project seeks to implement an on-campus living laboratory to study a sustainable agricultural system that integrates three elements: a traditional corn/soybean rotation, cover crop seeding, and cattle grazing.
