The Situation

Energized by grassroots efforts on campus, a growing interest in green strategies by homeowners, and expanding opportunities for investment in the energy sector in Ohio, the Center Community Advisory Board identified this initiative as a priority in summer 2009. Its purpose is to bring together university faculty, staff, and students with community members to develop and implement strategies to promote the use of green energy and sustainable practices on campus and in the community.

How will Wittenberg help?

This is the newest initiative, with planning still at the early stages. Proposedcommunity-based learning experiences include geographic studies of city energy usage; research on best practices and available resources to increase energy efficiencies and reduce waste in city homes and businesses; community-wide meetings to build support and enthusiasm for green initiatives; educationalprograms in area schools; and a GREEN EXPO to be hosted by Wittenberg University in partnership with the City of Springfield. The proposed GREEN EXPO will feature demonstrations and exhibits to inform residents and small businesses about strategies, resources, and financing to help them increaseenergy efficiencies and reduce waste in their homes and places of work. Center staff will work with faculty to support the development of community service opportunities, service-learning courses, internship experiences, and leadership development opportunities for students to help with “Growing a Greener Springfield.”