The Science Learning Center has earned the highest distinction in the University of Michigan’s Sustainable Office Certification Program—platinum status. The certification, administered by the Office of Campus Sustainability, recognizes offices that have implemented innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste, make greener purchases, and engage their entire workplace in sustainability.
A Team Effort Across Every Category
The SLC earned points across all six certification categories: energy efficiency, sustainable food, waste reduction, purchasing, transportation, and awareness. Several initiatives stood out.
Energy conservation beyond the office. The SLC coordinates with LSA Facilities to power down air handlers in buildings where it runs weekend study groups, ensuring energy isn’t wasted heating or cooling spaces when no one is there. Staff also share energy-use data from the campus Energy Management website and use energy-saving settings on all computers and peripherals.
Waste reduction with purpose. The office has eliminated single-use disposables in its breakroom in favor of compostable and reusable dishware, cut out individually packaged coffee and creamer, and set double-sided printing as the default across all printers. Paper left behind by students in the SLC computer lab is reused or recycled, and compost bins have been added to both the SLC’s main location in the Chemistry Building and its satellite space in the Undergraduate Science Building.
Smarter purchasing. During a recent renovation, the SLC donated surplus chairs, tables, and whiteboards to other LSA units rather than discarding them. The team buys in bulk, consolidates orders to cut down on packaging and deliveries, and prioritizes Energy Star-rated equipment.
Building a culture of sustainability. More than half of SLC staff have completed the Planet Blue Ambassador training, and the office integrates sustainability into new employee onboarding. The SLC has also formed a Green Team, posted educational signage, and hosted presentations on campus sustainability efforts.
What Platinum Means
Offices must score 95% or higher on the Sustainable Office Checklist to earn platinum certification. The SLC achieved this through consistent, practical action—from coordinating building energy use around program schedules to rethinking how everyday supplies are purchased and discarded. To learn more about the Sustainable Office Certification Program, visit the Office of Campus Sustainability.
