What is
Sustainability?

Program
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The Arboretum at
Penn State Behrend

GOALS: Energy

Reduce energy use and promote cleaner fuels

The college relies on electricity and natural gas for most processes that require energy consumption. It is not feasible to eliminate electrical use for lights, computers, or most other equipment; nor can we reasonably stop using internal combustion engines in our cars and other vehicles. Therefore, implementation of this goal incorporates a practical approach to energy reduction.

One unexpected result of the space program has been a new understanding of the functioning of our planet. When the first astronauts saw the Earth from space, they recognized it for what it is, a small, fragile blue-green sphere that is a closed system.

This view of our planet inspired the development of the Gaia hypothesis by Dr. James Lovelock and Dr. Lynn Marguils (Gaia, A New Look at Life on Earth). Named after the ancient goddess of the Earth, the Gaia hypothesis cast the Earth as a living organism, with regulating systems that correspond to human organs.

If we apply this theory to Behrend, the energy system would correspond with our nervous system, which helps us relay information and do work. Information is transmitted through our nervous system via electrical impulse, and it is the use of electricity that constitutes the majority of Behrend's energy use.

Our process toward an efficient, environmentally sound energy system will be measured by the following indicators:

1. Amount of energy used;
2. Source of energy;
3. Research into alternative fuels; and
4. Energy consumption by vehicles on campus.