Category: News

Utilizing AI in Building Performance with Dr. Tarek Coehn’s Lamar.ai

CAPTION & IMAGE PLACEHOLDER

The Office of Sustainability had the chance to speak with Tarek Rakha, Associate Professor at Georgia Tech’s School of Architecture and Director of the High Performance Building Lab. He is currently on leave as a Regents Innovator to commercialize his research through Lamar.ai, a company he co-founded. Lamar.ai leverages drone technology and AI to revolutionize building diagnostics, offering a faster, cheaper, and more accurate alternative to traditional inspection methods.d Resilience Specialist, in the Office of Sustainability

Can you please tell us a little bit about yourself and your background and how you ended up in Atlanta?

I’m originally from Cairo, Egypt, where I trained as an architect. I completed my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Cairo University and later pursued a Ph.D. in Building Technology at MIT, after initially starting at Harvard’s Graduate School of Design. My doctoral work focused on urban systems — including thermal comfort, mobility, and how these factors influence decisions in the built environment. I began my academic career at Syracuse University, where I first explored the idea of using drones for thermal mapping in 2015. In 2019, I joined Georgia Tech, where I led the High Performance Building Lab and received a major research award from the U.S. Department of Energy called AIRBEM (Aerial Intelligence for Retrofit Building Energy Modeling). That project significantly advanced our technology and ultimately led me to co-found Lamar.ai, where I now serve as CEO while on leave as a Regents Innovator.

Can you tell us more about the drones and your company?

At Lamar.ai, we describe what we do as being the ‘MRI for buildings.’ We use drones to capture both visible-light and infrared images of building exteriors. These images are analyzed with computer vision algorithms we’ve developed over the past decade to detect and diagnose issues such as air infiltration or exfiltration, thermal bridging, water intrusion, and physical damage like cracks. All of this data is mapped onto 3D models, creating a comprehensive visual representation of a building’s condition. Our platform offers three core services: Lamar Detect, which identifies anomalies quickly and cost-effectively; Lamar Diagnose, which provides work orders and solutions; and Lamar Audit, which calculates return on investment and energy savings. Our system is 5–10 times cheaper, up to 10 times faster, and about 50% more accurate than traditional methods — and much safer because no one needs to physically climb buildings. We’ve deployed this technology across North America, the UK, and the UAE, supporting both existing buildings and new construction projects.

How do you envision projects like this working at Georgia Tech?

Georgia Tech’s campus is large and complex, with many buildings that have deferred maintenance needs, especially related to energy performance. Our platform could provide a scalable solution by conducting campus-wide assessments — for example, inspecting 25–30% of buildings each year. This would allow Georgia Tech to prioritize which buildings need immediate attention, whether that’s weatherization, roof replacement, or targeted repairs. We can even detect early signs of mold or HVAC system issues and verify contractor work after repairs are completed. Importantly, our approach is also far more cost-effective: a traditional building enclosure investigation might cost $25,000, but we can conduct the same assessment for around $3,000. By leveraging this technology, Georgia Tech could significantly reduce costs, proactively plan capital investments, and improve building performance across campus.

Is there an opportunity to involve students and faculty in this work?

Absolutely. There are multiple ways to integrate Lamar.ai into educational programs. Students could participate in data collection by learning to operate drones, which would be especially relevant for aerospace engineering courses. On the analytics side, computer science and electrical engineering students could work on refining our AI models or annotating data. Architecture and design students could use the insights from our platform as part of design studios or competitions, similar to what we’re doing with the University at Buffalo’s ‘Resilient Campus’ competition, which focuses on sustainability-driven design proposals. These opportunities not only provide hands-on experience but also help bridge research, education, and real-world impact.

What are the broader sustainability benefits of this technology?

Our work has direct implications for sustainability. By detecting and addressing building inefficiencies, we can significantly reduce energy use, improve occupant comfort, and enhance structural safety. All of this translates into measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, which aligns closely with Georgia Tech’s Climate Action Plan. Additionally, because our decisions are based on real data rather than assumptions, they are more cost-effective and targeted, leading to better resource allocation and a higher return on investment. Ultimately, this technology supports not just sustainability goals but also operational efficiency, occupant health, and long-term building resilience.

Do you have any final thoughts to share?

We’re at a pivotal moment in sustainability and climate action. The challenges we face globally are significant, but the technology now available to us makes it possible to address them more effectively and affordably than ever before. By leveraging data-driven tools like Lamar.ai, we can make informed decisions that not only improve building safety and performance but also reduce environmental impact. My hope is that Georgia Tech — where this idea was born — will fully embrace this technology as part of its sustainability strategy, setting an example for institutions around the world.

Contact

Tim Sterling

Sustainability Coordinator

Office of Sustainability

Email: sustain@gatech.edu

Extreme Heat and Mobility Discussion With Dr. Rounaq Basu from the School of City and Regional Planning

People on Georgia Tech’s campus (left), Dr. Rounaq Basu (right). Source: Georgia Tech

The Office of Sustainability recently sat down with Dr. Rounaq Basu, assistant professor in the School of City and Regional Planning, to learn more about his innovative work addressing extreme heat and mobility. Dr. Basu brings a global and interdisciplinary perspective to Georgia Tech, shaped by his experiences in Latin America, Boston’s Region Metropolitan Planning Organization, and now the City of Atlanta.  

His current project, NO-HEAT (Neutralizing Onerous Heat Effects on Active Transportation), uses high-resolution climate modeling and community engagement to understand how heat impacts people who walk and bike, especially those with limited transportation options. 

We’re excited about the potential for integrating Dr. Basu’s work into a living learning lab on campus where students, staff, and researchers can collaborate to design cooler, safer, and more accessible mobility environments. In addition, Dr. Basu is partnering with Georgia Tech’s Parking and Transportation Services department to develop student-led projects focused on key transportation, micromobility, and parking initiatives—further enriching the experiential learning opportunities and driving innovation in campus mobility. Learn more about his research and vision in the interview conducted by Jennifer Chirico, Associate VP of Sustainability, and Jairo Garcia, Lecturer and Resilience Specialist, in the Office of Sustainability

Can you start by telling us a little about yourself, background, and what drew you to Georgia Tech? 

I began my academic career as a major in civil engineering with a focus on transportation, which led to grad school in transportation engineering. From there, I pivoted to urban planning, where I went to Latin America to work with local agencies and communities to see the effects of new types of transportation on people’s lives. I had the chance to work in Mexico, where I analyzed the effects of putting in a new metro line, and in Brazil, where I explored whether we could provide on-demand micro-transit for lower income communities.  

After I completed my PhD, I worked in the public sector at Bostron region MPO (metro planning org) and managed the multi-model planning design team. I started looking at extreme heat and looking at the transportation element. While there, I brought together datasets on walking and biking to combine extremely hot areas to assess heat risk. After this experience, I moved to Atlanta December 2024 to join the Georgia Tech community and am now working with the Department of Transportation for a project to replicate my Boston work for the City of Atlanta.  

We are excited to learn about your new research with the  NO-HEAT  (Neutralizing Onerous Heat Effects on Active Transportation) project. Can you tell us how you got involved with it and how it works?  

The NO-HEAT project is based on my earlier research as a PhD student and as a postdoc. I looked to create an urban climate model to see how people perceive how hot it feels, essentially comforting at the human scale. This was proposed 10 years ago by European researchers, but it had not been seen in the US. Therefore, this project is likely the first in the US to use the model at a high resolution of 1 meter and examine how the index changes over the course of the day. The process uses data on how hot it feels vs. how many people are walking and biking, giving us a heat risk. This is used to calculate cumulative heat exposure, while including categories such as race, gender, etc.  

I completed a preliminary report for Boston, analyzing correlations between mobility choices and heat exposure. The study identified two groups: people who choose to walk/bike vs people who do not have other options. The analysis compared home-based heat exposure vs mobility-based heat exposure.

Building on this analysis, the NO-HEAT project’s first step involves data analytics and identifying high heat risk locations. This leads into the second step: to partner with community organizations to do walk and bike audits, collecting “lived experience” data. The third step is to collect that information and collectively arrive at mitigation measures to eventually do a pilot and assess the effectiveness of pilot mitigation interventions.  

These steps will cultivate into creating an app that will provide navigation recommendations based on the coolest routes. The beta version will be released in the fall and then the app will be used for pilots. We have also bought heat and air quality equipment to take further measurements.

You describe extreme heat as “˜the silent killer,’ and as “the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States.” How does this apply to our campus?  

I’ve found that people react to pictures and stories, so when you look at hurricanes, etc., the pictures make you feel the damage. This drives concern, donations, and investment. We do not see the same with extreme heat, but we all experience it, making it very bipartisan because everyone is affected by extreme heat.  

Depending on the community – how much they drive, how many parks, green space, trees, etc., many people are affected by extreme heat, and many people die every year from it. We need to think about who is affected most and what we can do.  

In terms of data, 9-1-1 data, heat exceeds other extreme weather events. Extreme heat effects are even more exacerbated if you have other conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, etc. that increase vulnerabilities. 

On GT campus, there is room for us to be more intentional about how we design spaces (e.g., tech square – beautiful, but people do not use it when it is hot). Bus shelters are nice but are made of metal and heat up more. These could be redesigned with more greenery and shade. There are many spaces that are open to heat and are not used for shade. We need to have more spaces that are not just grass to help GT community feel comfortable and safer to get around without driving.  

How could your work be used on campus, serving as a living learning lab with students and staff? 

First, start by identifying high risk locations on campus using the microclimate model and collecting data with sensors. Look at mobility data to count how many people are walking and biking and identify the highest risk locations and then zoom into them while thinking of heat mitigation interventions. Second, assess locations in relation to landscape staff routes and determine mitigation measures. Third, take a broad look at commuting patterns. From this, design a survey to see what we could do to shift people away from cars.  

Before we wrap up, do you have any final words you’d like to share with us? 

If we improve the current condition to make it more comfortable and safer, we can entice more people to walk and bike. In turn, this would also help the current walker/biker population to also feel the benefits of these improvements. Furthermore, the staff population has the potential to make big shifts. 

Contact

Tim Sterling

Sustainability Coordinator

Office of Sustainability

Email: sustain@gatech.edu

New Composter to Enhance Campus Waste Reduction

A grant from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division enabled the acquisition of the large-scale compost vessel.

Pictured left to right: Members of the Office of Sustainability Abby Bower, Jennifer Chirico, and Steve Place welcome the new large-scale compost vessel to campus.
Pictured left to right: Members of the Office of Sustainability Abby Bower, Jennifer Chirico, and Steve Place welcome the new large-scale compost vessel to campus.

Georgia Tech recently received its first large-scale composter, providing a closed-loop mechanism for processing food waste and other organic materials on campus. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division awarded a Recycling and Waste Diversion grant to the Office of Sustainability in 2024, enabling the acquisition of the composter.

 

It is the first of its size for an urban campus in Georgia and one of the very few in the Southeast. By continuously mixing organic material to introduce oxygen under ideal temperatures, the composter accelerates the natural decomposition process within a contained vessel. This technology enables composting to occur more quickly and requires less space than other methods. With a 1,000-pound daily capacity, the machine is anticipated to process up to 175 tons of organics per year — nearly half of the approximately 400 tons that Georgia Tech composts annually.

 

Associate Vice President of Sustainability Jennifer Chirico identified the need for an on-site composting option to reduce food waste diversion costs. “We are thrilled to see this effort come to life in support of our zero-waste and circular economy goals in alignment with the Institute’s strategic plan and multiple other strategic initiatives,” Chirico said. “This project represents an incredible amount of hard work from our office. I want to thank Shan Arora, director of The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, for his support in writing the grant, and Program and Portfolio Manager for the Office of Sustainability Abby Bower for her hard work in bringing the compost to full implementation.”

 

Current compost locations include campus dining halls, Tech Catering, John Lewis Student Center Dining, Kaldi’s Coffee, Carnegie Kitchen, residence halls, and two academic buildings; however, expanding service is essential to diverting more waste from the landfill and meeting our Institute zero waste goals.

 

“Our first goal is always to reduce the total amount of waste we generate, but with existing technology and practices, we still need a way to sustainably dispose of unrecoverable food, compostable products, and landscape debris,” said Bower. “This technology will enable us to increase the amount that we compost and keep it here on campus. We are excited to share this initiative with our campus community.”

 

A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned in the Infrastructure and Sustainability Resource Recovery Yard, located off Tech Parkway, on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 1 p.m. The Office of Sustainability invites students, staff, and faculty to join us to learn how the compost vessel works and tour the new yard. Please RSVP here. Operations are expected to begin this fall, with expanded collection starting in Spring 2026. For more information or to get involved, contact sustain@gatech.edu.

 

 

Advancing a Circular Economy with Dr. Carolyn Seepersad’s ReCreateIt Lab

The Office of Sustainability recently sat down with Dr. Carolyn Seepersad, professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, to explore her groundbreaking research in advancing a circular economy through recyclable materials.

Three people pose for a photo. From left to right, Dr. Jennifer Chirico, Dr. Carolyn Seepersad, Dr. Jairo Garcia.

From left to right: Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of sustainability; Carolyn Seepersad, professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering; and Jairo Garcia, resilience specialist in the Office of Sustainability. 

The Office of Sustainability recently sat down with Dr. Carolyn Seepersad, professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, to explore her groundbreaking research in advancing a circular economy through recyclable materials. Dr. Seepersad is the Georgia Tech lead for the ReCreateIt Lab, a new initiative funded by the National Science Foundation in collaboration with Re:3D and the Austin, Texas office of Habitat for Humanity, which focuses on the life cycle of plastics and the practical application of 3D printing technology.

The ReCreateIt lab transforms recyclable plastics into raw materials and then into usable products—bringing circular economy principles to life. One exciting idea discussed was the potential to turn recycled plastics into compost bins for campus use, creating a closed-loop system that supports both waste reduction and sustainability goals.

We’re thrilled about the possibilities for integrating Dr. Seepersad’s work into a living learning lab on the Georgia Tech campus, where students and researchers can engage directly with sustainability innovation. Learn more about Dr. Seepersad’s project in the interview conducted by Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of sustainability, and Jairo Garcia, lecturer and resilience specialist, in the Office of Sustainability.

Can you start by telling us a little about yourself, your background, and what drew you to Georgia Tech and mechanical engineering?

I grew up on a 100-acre family farm in rural West Virginia, where my father built nearly everything on our property. Watching him work sparked my interest in problem-solving and engineering, and I naturally gravitated toward STEM subjects in school. At the time, I was naïve about what engineering truly meant since I had never worked with an engineer before entering college.

I pursued my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering at West Virginia University, where I was one of only 2-3 females in the class of 50. During my senior year, I was fortunate to receive a Rhodes Scholarship, which allowed me to study at Oxford University in England. While there, I earned a degree in philosophy, politics and economics, broadening my perspective and gaining valuable experience beyond engineering.

Eventually, I returned to Georgia Tech to complete both my master’s and Ph.D. in mechanical engineering with a focus on engineering design. From there, I joined the University of Texas at Austin, where I spent 18 years as a faculty member in the department of mechanical engineering, conducting research that connected engineering design with additive manufacturing. Two years ago, I came back to Georgia Tech as a full professor to do research in engineering design. For me, Georgia Tech feels like home, and I am excited to contribute to its strong hands-on engineering culture while supporting the next generation of engineers.

We are excited to learn about your new research with the ReCreateIt Project Lab. Can you tell us how you got involved and how it works?

The ReCreateIt Project is funded by the National Science Foundation and is centered on bringing technology out of the lab and into practice. The initiative is led by RE:3D, a Texas-based organization that specializes in creating large-scale projects with a strong social mission, particularly using recycled materials.  Collaborators include Austin Habitat for Humanity, The University of Texas at Austin, the University of Wallangong (Australia), and the University of Western Sydney (Australia).

Our team brings together collaborators across design, printing, and life-cycle analysis to find innovative uses for materials that might otherwise go to waste. For example, items that are not sold at places like Habitat for Humanity’s ReStores can be repurposed into raw materials and then used to create entirely new products. The idea is to make this process accessible to everyday people—customers could walk into one of those stores and use a machine to “design their own goods” from recycled inputs.

We are also working with partners at The University of Texas at Austin who run life-cycle analyses to measure the savings in energy, water, waste, and emissions. Researchers are studying how to make these recycled materials easier to 3D-print with, as well as identifying the broader sustainability benefits. The project ultimately has the potential to provide low-cost goods while promoting more sustainable consumer practices.

How could this project serve as a living learning lab with students and staff on campus?

While the project originated in Texas, NSF encouraged us to expand and collaborate with different institutions. At Georgia Tech, the vision is to establish a campus-based version of the lab that can serve as a hub for experimentation and learning. Imagine a space where printers use recycled materials collected right here on campus to produce useful, attractive objects. Students and staff would have the opportunity to design, test, and refine products that bring sustainability into everyday campus life. We are also working with partners at the University of Georgia and the University of Pittsburgh to incorporate additional analysis methods—such as the CAP process—to measure the ecological impacts of these initiatives within the Georgia Tech ecosystem. This kind of living lab would not only draw attention to the issue of plastics and waste but also empower students to take part in hands-on sustainability research and innovation

What are some of the outputs that could help with reusability on campus?

There are two dimensions to the potential outputs. On one hand, we are interested in generating measurable metrics—such as how effectively we can reuse materials in maker spaces. On the other, there is a qualitative side that involves raising awareness and encouraging new ways of thinking about reusability. Concrete outputs might include printing compost bins for campus, collaborating with industrial design classes to create public art installations, or producing outdoor furniture like recycled tables and chairs. Each of these efforts would combine practical utility with a message about sustainability, sparking conversation while serving everyday needs.

Are there any other ways that this project could advance sustainability on campus?

One of the biggest challenges in sustainability is helping people understand the impact of their choices. With this project, we aim to quantify outcomes in ways that are both tangible and relatable. For example, we can show how many plastic bottles are kept out of landfills, how many gallons of waste are diverted, or how many miles of emissions are saved by reusing materials. By framing the data in accessible terms, we hope to inspire students and staff to think differently about how items can be reused or reimagined. The ultimate goal is to encourage a shift in perspective that makes sustainability a natural part of daily decision-making.

Before we wrap up, do you have any final words you’d like to share?

We are excited to officially launch the project in January 2026, with the lab expected to be fully operational later in the year. It is an exciting opportunity to connect innovation, sustainability, and education in meaningful ways, and I look forward to seeing the impact it will have on our community.

Contact

Drew Cutright
Director of Sustainability Engagement
Office of Sustainability

Email: sustain@gatech.edu

Office of Sustainability Hosts USG Energy Summit to Amplify Efforts in Energy Management

USG schools are working together to manage energy use on campuses.

On Oct. 1, the Office of Sustainability (a department within Infrastructure and Sustainability) led the second meeting of the University System of Georgia (USG) Campus Energy and Resiliency Group (CERG) summit to further the conversation around energy management for campuses statewide. Six Georgia schools participated: Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, Emory University, Georgia State University, Kennesaw State University, and the University of West Georgia. Staff from the sustainability, utilities, and engineering departments of each of these schools gathered to discuss setting USG energy targets and best practices for reducing energy use, increasing energy efficiency, and establishing shared resources.

 

USG Vice Chancellor of Real Estate and Facilities Sandra Neuse was the keynote speaker. “I’m thrilled that the Campus Energy and Resiliency Group has come together organically to share their collective expertise in energy efficiency and sustainability,” she said. “Their focus on establishing energy efficiency targets and collaborating with other institutions across the USG will not only avoid costs — it is an investment in the future and a model for our students, who will be the next generation of leaders.”

 

The call for the development of the summit was inspired by the potential of collaboration throughout the USG, and the acknowledgment that each university has unique expertise, experience, and insight that can aid in energy management strategies for campuses across Georgia.

 

The key ideas discussed during the summit included:

  • Setting statewide USG energy targets.
  • Assessing Energy Use intensity, a metric that measures energy use per square foot per year at a building level.
  • Developing a framework for best practices within the USG to share strategies for increasing energy efficiency and conservation.
  • Developing standards for how utility data is tracked.

Increasing energy management efforts is critical right now as utility rates continue to rise. Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability, presented Georgia Tech’s energy data at the event. “One of the most important aspects of campus sustainability is increasing energy efficiency and setting energy targets to advance progress. We are excited to partner with our peers across USG to share best practices and move this effort forward,” she said.

 

The Georgia Tech Office of Sustainability plans on continued engagement with other USG campuses across the state, and the next summit is scheduled for Spring 2026 at Kennesaw State University.

 

 

Additional Media

image of participants from the USG Energy Summit held Oct. 1
image of participants from the USG Energy Summit held Oct. 1

New Online Zero Waste Hub Provides Updated Guidance for Campus Recycling, Reuse, and Compost

This updated online source makes diverting waste from the landfill easier.

A guide to simplifying recycling, composting, and reuse at Georgia Tech.

 

The Georgia Tech Zero Waste Resource Hub, developed by the Office of Sustainability, a department within Infrastructure and Sustainability, provides an easy-to-use online platform that helps the campus community navigate locations and resources for diverting waste from the landfill. By bringing these services together in one place, the hub supports Georgia Tech’s goal of advancing zero waste practices throughout the campus community.

 

The hub is designed for students, faculty, and staff and can be used for identifying compost and recycling locations, reusing surplus furniture, and making more sustainable purchases. Key features of the hub include:

  • Campus Navigation
    Find drop-off locations for recycling, compost, and hard-to-dispose-of items like electronics, lightbulbs, and batteries.
  • Reuse Resources
    Discover how to participate in reuse opportunities around campus, from donating gently used items to sourcing reusable materials.
  • Sorting and Disposal Guidance
    Clear instructions to help reduce contamination and ensure items are properly sorted and processed.
  • Sustainability Support
    Direct links to relevant forms, procurement resources, and contacts across campus departments.

The Zero Waste Resource Hub was developed through the Living Learning Campus Fellowship program, an initiative within the Office of Sustainability that enables students to collaborate with campus operations and infrastructure. Gabriella Nguyen, a program fellow, worked on the hub as part of her fellowship with other campus units such as the Office of Solid Waste Management, Surplus, and Campus Services.

 

“Through my study abroad, I had the chance to learn about sustainability initiatives in the EU. As a fellow in the Office of Sustainability, I set out to centralize and simplify all campus zero waste programs and procedures into the Zero Waste Resource Hub. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the staff who exposed me to the incredible initiatives happening across campus. I hope the dashboard makes it easier for everyone to access these resources and get involved,” said Nguyen.

 

By making sustainability resources more accessible and actionable, the Zero Waste Resource Hub reflects the Institute Strategic Plan’s Foundational Priority 2 of becoming a Zero Waste Campus and our broader commitment to environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.

Key Terms You Should Know to Advance Net Zero Goals Across the University

Jennifer Chirico, Associate Vice President for Sustainability at Georgia Tech, outlines a practical path toward net zero emissions in higher education.

Jennifer Chirico, Associate Vice President for Sustainability at Georgia Tech, shares strategies for achieving net zero on college campuses. While ambitious, this goal is attainable through targeted actions that help embed sustainability into campus culture, operations, and everyday experiences.

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My Green Lab Initiative Drives Sustainable Practices in Campus Labs

Labs at Georgia Tech drive innovation but also consume high levels of energy and resources. In 2024, the Office of Sustainability partnered with Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) to launch the My Green Lab initiative.

Laboratories are central to Georgia Tech’s mission of driving groundbreaking research, innovative discoveries, and life-saving technology. However, these labs are also significant consumers of resources. With nearly 900,000 square feet of campus lab space, labs use, on average, 10 times the electricity and four times the water of a typical classroom. They also produce most of the hazardous waste on campus. In 2023, Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) brought the issue to the attention of the Office of Sustainability, which led the charge in 2024 to launch a My Green Lab working group and sponsored three campus labs to work toward certification, including the School of Biological Sciences Instructional Labs, the Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience’s Molecular Evolution Core Facility, and the Takayama Lab.  

My Green Lab is an international community of scientists dedicated to making laboratories more sustainable and resource-efficient. To achieve My Green Lab certification, each lab conducted an initial assessment to evaluate their current sustainability practices and identified areas of improvement, including waste, water, and electricity. Labs were encouraged to adopt measures such as defrosting and cleaning refrigerator coils, using timers for test equipment, and promoting best practices. Alicia Wood-Jones, Lab and Safety Officer for EH&S, was a key leader in the working group. Known for her work on the Chemical Reclamation Committee, Wood-Jones’ vision and drive are instrumental in finding innovative solutions to long-standing challenges in lab decommissioning. 

She thanks her colleagues, including the EH&S Lab and Chemical Safety Team, “for their help and vision. We believe that even small steps forward can make a big difference here at Georgia Tech. I am so appreciative to all involved. I look forward to future collaborations with lab members on campus.”  

Katherine Nguyen and her team in the Takayama Lab construct multicellular models and dissect cell signaling pathways to understand disease physiology. While pursuing this research, the lab team activated measures to responsibly manage their lab resources, such as recycling in the lab, keeping centrifuges at room temperature when not needed, and consolidating orders. 

“I’m incredibly happy and proud to have been a part of this program and appreciate everyone’s hard work to try to make Georgia Tech a more sustainable campus,” she said. “Our lab was the first academic lab at Georgia Tech to get certified. Sometimes, graduate students want to be greener, but don’t know how to or feel like we have the power to. My Green Lab helped identify feasible options for labs to reduce their waste. Even if labs couldn’t make every single change, any improvement is a positive change.”  

Sustainability efforts at the Molecular Evolution Core Laboratory are led by Anton Bryksin, Shweta Biliya, and Adam Fallah. The lab is pioneering Tip-Cycle, a program that sterilizes and recycles pipettes for reuse. This lab also monitors campus blackwater for diseases such as Covid-19, using thousands of pipettes in their work. Faced with resource constraints during the pandemic, these researchers developed innovative solutions to maximize resource efficiency. “We’ve always wanted to make our lab practices more sustainable, but weren’t sure where to start. My Green Lab gave us the tools and guidance to turn that intention into action. This certification represents the dedication of our entire team to create a more sustainable environment,” said Biliya, a Georgia Tech research scientist.  

The My Green Lab initiative offers an approach for transforming campus labs into more efficient spaces while producing less hazardous waste. By prioritizing sustainability in our labs, Georgia Tech can have both a global reputation for research and responsible resource management.  

Visit the Office of Sustainability for more information on My Green Lab. 

Contact

Cathy Brim
Communications Officer II
Institute Communications / Infrastructure and Sustainability

or

Drew Cutright
Director of Sustainability Engagement
Office of Sustainability

Email: cathy.brim@gatech.edu

Earth Month Celebrates Sustainability on Campus

Many organizations and departments across campus will host events throughout the month.

April is Earth Month at Georgia Tech. Coordinated by the Office of Sustainability and organized by partners across campus, it extends the Institute’s observance of Earth Day (April 22) by showcasing campus sustainability efforts and providing opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to learn and engage.  

Many organizations and departments across campus will host events throughout the month. In addition to the annual Earth Day Organization Fair and Celebration on April 17, the Office of Sustainability will host a session on campus energy and several outdoor tours throughout the month, including a bird walk, mushroom identification tour, and arboretum tour. Campus organizations are encouraged to share their sustainability-focused events through the Earth Month event form.  

 

Featured Event: Earth Day Sustainable Org Fair and Celebration  

Thursday, April 17, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.  

Porch, The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design 

This annual signature event features tabling from sustainability-focused departments and student organizations, a free yoga session from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., sustainable crafts, and treats.  

Sign up here to table at the celebration. 

 

Earth Month Events 

 

Carbon Reduction Challenge – April 1 Info Session 

  • Tuesday, April 1, 11 a.m. – noon. 
  • Host/Contact: Kjersti Lukens, Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business, klukens3@gatech.edu. 

 

Mushroom Identification Tour 

Discover the fascinating world of mushrooms with our expert guides from Kennesaw State University’s Field Station and the president of the Georgia Mushroom Society. 

 

  • Friday, April 4, 10 a.m. – noon. 
  • Location: Meet at The Kendeda Building Porch. 
  • Host: Office of Sustainability.  

Sustainability Network Meeting 

  • Tuesday, April 8, 11 a.m. – noon. 
  • Location: Centennial Room, Exhibition Hall.  
  • Host: Tech Dining, Campus Services. 
  • Treats provided. 

 

SMART Campus Forum Series: Clean Energy 

  • Thursday, April 10, noon – 1 p.m. 
  • Location: Online. 
  • Host: Office of Sustainability. 

 

Bird Walk 

Join Georgia Tech Birdwatchers for a campus walk to study birds in their natural habitat. 

  • Friday, April 11, 8:30 – 10 a.m., with donuts and juice provided at 8 a.m. 
  • Location: Meet at The Kendeda Building Porch. 
  • Host: Office of Sustainability.  

 

Careers in Sustainability: April Listening Session 

  • Monday, April 14, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 
  • Host/Contact: Kjersti Lukens, Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business. 

 

Earth Day: Has the Economy Outgrown the Planet? 

  • Thursday, April 17, 11 a.m. – noon 
  • Location: The Kendeda Building Auditorium. 

 

Garden to Table Food Demo With Tech Dining 

  • Thursday, April 17, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
  • Host: Campus Services 

 

Arboretum Walking Tour 

Join us for an enlightening arboretum tour and enjoy a guided walk through the Georgia Tech campus with Infrastructure and Sustainability’s Jason Gregory, Institute landscape architect, and Jerry Young, landscape project manager. 

  • Friday, April 18, 10 – 11:30 a.m. 
  • Location: Meet at The Kendeda Porch. 
  • Host: Infrastructure and Sustainability. 

 

Carbon Reduction Challenge Info Session 

  • Friday, April 18, 11 a.m. – noon. 
  • Host/Contact: Kjersti Lukens, Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business. 

 

Carbon Reduction Challenge Poster Session 

  • Friday, April 18, 2 – 4 p.m. 
  • Location: Ground Floor, The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design.  

 

Environmental Influence on Fashion (Fashion Show) 

  • Friday, April 18, 7 – 8:30 p.m. 
  • Location: The Kendeda Building Auditorium. 
  • Host: Spring 2025 Textiles Team. 

 

Georgia Tech Energy Day 

  • Wednesday, April 23, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. 
  • Location: Ferst Center for the Arts (morning), Georgia Tech Exhibition Hall (afternoon). 
  • Hosts: Institute for Matter and Systems; Strategic Energy Institute; Advanced Battery Center; Energy, Policy, and Innovation Center. 

 

Additional events, volunteer opportunities, and the sign-up form to share your event with the Earth Month calendar are posted on the Earth Month page.   

Contact

Drew Cutright
Director of Sustainability Engagement
Office of Sustainability

Email: sustain@gatech.edu

Sustainable Procurement Guide Offers a Pathway to Smarter Procurement Decisions

The recently published Georgia Tech Sustainable Procurement Guide, developed in partnership with the Office of Sustainability and the Office of Procurement and Business Services, reflects Georgia Tech’s commitment to sustainability.

The recently published Georgia Tech Sustainable Procurement Guide, developed in partnership with the Office of Sustainability and the Office of Procurement and Business Services, reflects Georgia Tech’s commitment to sustainability. This guide provides faculty, staff, and departments with actionable recommendations to make environmentally responsible purchasing decisions. 

What Is Sustainable Procurement?  

Sustainable procurement is a forward-thinking purchasing approach that aims to create a circular economy — keeping materials in circulation for as long as possible while minimizing waste. By considering a product’s full life cycle, from sourcing to disposal, and supporting local and certified suppliers, it fosters restorative supply chains that benefit the planet, society, and the economy. 

Aligned with Georgia Tech’s strategic plan, the guide reinforces the Institute’s role in leading by example through sustainable practices, showcasing how smarter procurement decisions can drive campus sustainability and reduce environmental impact.  

Key Features of the Guide 
  • Product Life Cycle Assessment: Provides considerations to evaluate a product’s impact from creation to disposal, emphasizing durability, reusability, and recyclability. 
  • Total Cost of Ownership: Highlights the hidden environmental and societal costs of products, encouraging purchases that conserve energy and water and minimize waste. 
  • Packaging and Delivery Efficiency: Provides recommendations for consolidating deliveries and opting for minimal, recyclable packaging to reduce emissions and waste. 
  • Certifications and Standards: Offers recommendations for sustainable certifications for appliances, electronics, cleaning products, lab supplies, furniture, and office materials, ensuring alignment with national and global sustainability standards. 
  • Prioritizing Local Suppliers: Encourages sourcing from local businesses. 
How You Can Contribute 

Georgia Tech’s community members can advance sustainable procurement by: 

  • Reducing unnecessary purchases and exploring reuse options. 
  • Sharing strategies with peers to embed sustainability into daily operations. 
  • Utilizing the guide’s resources to integrate sustainable practices into procurement decisions. 

By making sustainable purchasing decisions, we can collectively reduce our environmental impact, support our local economy, and strengthen Georgia Tech’s position as a leader in sustainability.  

Explore the Sustainable Procurement Guide here. 

Contact

Drew Cutright
Director of Sustainability Engagement
Office of Sustainability

Email: sustain@gatech.edu

Living Learning Campus Pathways Offer Experience in Sustainability

The Office of Sustainability is offering a series of Living Learning Campus Pathways to provide unique, immersive learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge with real-world experience in sustainability.

In collaboration with subject matter experts in Infrastructure and Sustainability, the Office of Sustainability is offering a series of Living Learning Campus Pathways to provide unique, immersive learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge with real-world experience in sustainability. Applications for the Living Campus Student Fellowship, the newest offering, will open this month for students interested in gaining paid experience. 

 

Living Learning Campus Pathways 

Pathway 1: Data Requests 
Students, faculty, and staff can request campus data, including campus energy use and campus water consumption, for student projects and research. Data requests are available year-round. To date, Infrastructure and Sustainability has provided data for more than 200 requests. To request data, visit I&S Data Reporting & Analytics Request. 

Pathway 2: Project Partnership 
This pathway enables students, faculty, and staff to choose from a list of predetermined projects that advance campus sustainability and to work with staff members in Infrastructure and Sustainability. Current project offerings range from a campus LED lighting assessment to air quality monitoring. A list of available project topics for 2025 and the project application form can be found at Office of Sustainability | 2025 Living Campus Pathway 2 Projects. Projects can start as early as this semester. 

Pathway 3: Living Campus Student Fellowship 
Offers students a paid one to two-semester opportunity to work on a project advancing campus sustainability goals in partnership with the Office of Sustainability. The application for Fall 2025 will be open from Jan. 15 to March 14. Students interested in Pathway 3: Living Campus Student Fellowship should subscribe to communications from the Office of Sustainability for updates. 

For additional information about each pathway and the application processes, visit Living Learning Campus Pathways | Office of Sustainability. 

Contact

Abby Bower
Program and Portfolio Manager
Office of Sustainability
Infrastructure and Sustainability

Email: abby.bower@gatech.edu

Princeton Review Features Georgia Tech in 2025 Guide to Green Colleges

College applicants are increasingly choosing schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to the environment.

Georgia Tech is featured in The Princeton Review’s Guide to Green Colleges, solidifying a spot as a sustainability and environmental responsibility leader.

The Princeton Review selected colleges based on a comprehensive survey conducted during the 2023-24 academic year. The survey included input from nearly 600 college administrators and students regarding their institutions’ sustainability policies, practices, and programs. The guide also considers the schools’ uses of renewable energy, recycling and conservation programs, and the availability of environmental studies in academic offerings.

Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability, emphasized Georgia Tech’s commitment to a sustainable future. 

“Georgia Tech is continuing to develop a thriving, sustainable campus. We developed our first Institute sustainability plan, Sustainability Next, followed by the publication of our first comprehensive Climate Action Plan. We are already operationalizing it with increased clean energy strategies, zero emissions mobility across campus, the expansion of our award-winning EcoCommons, and a local food supply chain assessment. In addition, we are thrilled to advance our Living Campus Pathways, providing students, faculty, and staff with campus data to use for advancing sustainability on campus,” she said.

With a Green Rating Score of 91/99, these notable achievements factored into the decision to include Georgia Tech: 

  • The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, the first Living Building Challenge-certified research and academic building in the Southeast. 
  • The award-winning EcoCommons, 80 acres of regeneratively designed greenspace. 
  • The Green Forks initiative, aimed at reducing food waste and supporting student food security. 

Rob Fanek, editor-in-chief at The Princeton Review, highlighted the increasing interest among students in attending environmentally conscious colleges. “We are delighted to recommend Georgia Tech to students who want their ‘best-fit’ college to also be a green one,” Franek said. He noted the significant impact of sustainability on college applicant decisions, with 61% of nearly 8,000 respondents in a recent survey indicating that a college’s commitment to the environment influences their decision. 

Contact

Cathy Brim
Communications Officer II
Institute Communications / Infrastructure and Sustainability

Email: cathy.brim@gatech.edu

Georgia Tech Launches Green Forks to Fight Food Waste and Student Hunger

Georgia Tech is excited to announce the launch of Green Forks, a pioneering program aimed at tackling both food waste and student hunger on campus. Green Forks offers a simple yet impactful solution: event organizers can now easily share their catering leftovers to help divert food waste and provide meals to students facing food insecurity.

Georgia Tech is excited to announce the launch of Green Forks, a pioneering program aimed at tackling both food waste and student hunger on campus. This program was developed through a collaborative effort between the Division of Student Life and several Georgia Tech departments, including Tech Dining, Tech Catering, Office of Sustainability, and Klemis Kitchen.Green Forks offers a simple yet impactful solution: event organizers can now easily share their catering leftovers to help divert food waste and provide meals to students facing food insecurity. By filling out a short form provided by the program, organizers initiate a process where an email alert is sent to students across campus. Within 15 to 20 minutes after the event concludes, students who are hungry or food insecure can access the leftovers, ensuring surplus food is available to those who need it most.”We are thrilled to introduce Green Forks as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and social responsibility,” said Danielle Ismirle Dunigan, assistant director of Dining Operations at Georgia Tech. “This program not only addresses food waste but also directly supports our students, fostering a culture of care and community on campus. We believe small actions can lead to significant change.”In addition to facilitating the donation process, Green Forks provides guidance on food safety. To ensure effective participation, organizers are encouraged to follow these simple steps:

  1. Scan the provided QR code or bookmark this form for future events.
  2. Complete the form with as much detail as possible.
  3. After the event, leave the door open for 15 to 20 minutes to allow students to collect leftovers.
  4. Remember to clean up after the event. For drop-off events, organizers are responsible for clearing all materials. For events with caterer pickups, inform them to wait before cleaning up, or schedule pickups 20 minutes after the event to allow for additional time.

For more information about Green Forks and how to help combat food insecurity for Georgia Tech students, please visit https://dining.gatech.edu/greenforks. 

Georgia Tech Earns STARS Gold Rating for Sustainability Achievements

The Office of Sustainability is offering a series of Living Learning Campus Pathways to provide unique, immersive learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge with real-world experience in sustainability.

Georgia Tech has earned a STARS Gold Rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System, measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education.  

With more than 1,200 participating institutions in 52 countries, AASHE’s STARS program is the most widely recognized framework in the world for publicly reporting comprehensive information related to a college or university’s sustainability performance. Participants report achievements in five areas:  

  1. Academics and research  
  1. Engagement  
  1. Operations  
  1. Planning and administration  
  1. Innovation and leadership  

“STARS was developed by the campus sustainability community to provide high standards for recognizing campus sustainability efforts,” said AASHE Executive Director Meghan Fay Zahniser. “Georgia Tech has demonstrated a substantial commitment to sustainability by achieving a STARS Gold Rating.”

The STARS program is open to all institutions of higher education and allows for both internal comparisons as well as comparisons with similar institutions. “STARS is the cornerstone of sustainability reporting for colleges in the U.S. It is our most comprehensive process for collecting data and tracking our sustainability progress at Georgia Tech,” said Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of The Office of Sustainability at Georgia Tech.

The Office of Sustainability led the charge, reaching out to more than 200 individuals and dozens of offices collecting data for STARS. The information provides a deep understanding of how diverse campus areas work together to support sustainability. STARS data directly informed Georgia Tech’s recently published Climate Action Plan, whose goals advance Tech’s commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

“Achieving this rating is evidence of our commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship,” said Shantay Bolton, executive vice president for Administration and Finance. “It reflects the collaborative efforts of our entire campus community — students, faculty, and staff — as we work together to create a more innovative, environmentally conscious, and socially responsible institution. Let this be an inspiration as we continue advancing sustainable practices and making a positive impact on our campus, in Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and the world.”

Emma Blandford serves as portfolio manager for Sustainability Next and project manager for the STARS report. She says, “This team is incredibly passionate, and they are all experts in their fields. This report truly showcases that amazing work, but the progress does not end there. As proud as we are of earning a Gold Rating, Georgia Tech will continue to improve our commitment to sustainability going forward.”

It is important to note that this report showcases data only from Summer 2021 through Summer 2023. Since the fall, Georgia Tech has:  

The Gold Rating represents an improvement from Georgia Tech’s 2021 submission, which received a Silver designation. From highest to lowest, STARS ratings include Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Reporter. Blandford adds, “We have landed Gold status, but the path to Platinum is visible. We are excited to see how far we can go.”

Georgia Tech’s STARS report is publicly available on the STARS website.

Contact

Emma Blandford
Program and Portfolio Manager
Sustainability Next

Email: eblanford3@gatech.edu

Climate Action Plan Provides Road Map to Net-Zero Emissions

Georgia Tech’s Climate Action Plan outlines mitigation and adaptation strategies for reaching net-zero emissions on campus by 2050 and contributing to global solutions through education and research.

Georgia Tech unveiled its first Climate Action Plan (CAP), an actionable road map for halving Institute emissions by 2030 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. It provides strategies for mitigation, adaptation, climate education, and research, while finding ethical, cost-effective solutions.  

The CAP is a deliverable of Sustainability Next, Georgia Tech’s 10-year strategic sustainability plan, and it is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Institute’s strategic plan, and the Comprehensive Campus Plan.  

“As one of the world’s leading research universities, Georgia Tech has the opportunity, and the obligation, to create and share solutions that can help curb climate change and mitigate its harmful impact on our planet and our lives,” said President Ángel Cabrera. “Our Climate Action Plan is bold and ambitious, aiming for 100% clean ground transportation by 2030 and 100% clean energy by 2050. These goals are not easy, but they reflect the seriousness of the challenges before us.”    

The CAP was led by Georgia Tech’s Office of Sustainability, with engagement across the campus community. The CAP Advisory Task Force, comprising experts and Institute leadership, helped guide the effort. Nine working groups in key focus areas developed climate action strategies, and additional stakeholder outreach with students, staff, faculty, and the Atlanta community took place at workshops, events, town halls, and webinars.  

The plan’s nine focus areas and guiding principles are:  

  1. Community, Ethics, and Accessibility: We seek to ensure that fair and just climate policies and strategies are in place at Georgia Tech and that they prioritize affordable climate change solutions that support our internal and external community. 
  2. Building Energy: We are committed to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.  
  3. Renewable Energy and Offsets: We prioritize clean energy technologies to eliminate emissions. 
  4. Mobility: We optimize campus mobility through a variety of transportation modes that are accessible, affordable, and low- to no-emissions, considering environmental and human health impacts when determining and implementing transit and land use actions.  
  5. Materials Management: We support a thriving circular economy that focuses on upstream systems for achieving zero waste, ensures sustainable procurement, and supports our local community.  
  6. Water Management: We adapt our water infrastructure to be resilient to the impacts of climate change.  
  7. Education: We prepare all students, regardless of discipline, to address climate-related challenges in their personal and professional lives. 
  8. Research: We expand support for faculty, staff, and students to advance innovative research and projects to address climate-related issues.  
  9. Carbon Sequestration: We leverage the natural and physical resources of our campus to sequester and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 

The plan has 30 strategies for reaching net-zero emissions by 2050 and advancing climate research and education. The most ambitious strategies include: 

  • Transition to electrification of combustion-based heating systems. 
  • Increase energy efficiency in building operations. 
  • Increase on-site renewable energy production, and procure energy generated from renewable and zero-emissions sources.  
  • Transition the campus vehicle fleet to zero-emissions vehicles and increase sustainable and affordable commuting options. 
  • Implement blackwater reuse systems and increase water efficiency and conversation. 
  • Become a Zero Waste campus. 
  • Prioritize climate education across Georgia Tech’s curriculum. 
  • Identify and shape future climate research opportunities in which Georgia Tech aspires to lead.  

“Georgia Tech is committed to sustainability and the environmental stewardship of our campus community,” said Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability and chair of the CAP Advisory Task Force. “The CAP was developed in partnership with leadership and with our own experts from within Georgia Tech. As we move toward implementation, it will require a whole-community approach, and we will continue to work together to reach our goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.”   

To read or download the full plan, visit the Office of Sustainability’s webpage here. If you are interested in participating in an implementation committee, please fill out the form on the CAP website.   

Contact

Abby Bower
Program and Portfolio Manager
Office of Sustainability
Infrastructure and Sustainability

Email: abby.bower@gatech.edu

Earth Month Features Sustainability Events

April is Earth Month with a full calendar of events open to the campus community.

April is Earth Month at Georgia Tech. Coordinated by the Office of Sustainability and hosted by partners across campus, it extends the Institute’s observance of Earth Day (April 22) by showcasing campus sustainability efforts and providing opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to learn and take action.  

This year’s Earth Month holds special significance, as Georgia Tech will soon publish its first Climate Action Plan, a road map for reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.   

“Earth Month presents us with a unique time to honor and safeguard our environment together,” said Vanessa Suarez, sustainability coordinator in the Office of Sustainability. “It’s an opportunity for all of us to be inspired and make a positive difference, both locally and globally; a reminder that collective changes yield significant impact.”  

Events will be hosted by organizations and departments across campus during the month to learn, celebrate, and share best practices.   

Featured Event: Earth Day Sustainable Org Fair and Celebration  

Wednesday, April 17, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design 

This signature event will feature sustainability-focused departments and student organizations, Earth Month BYO T-shirt screen printing and other textiles, and free King of Pops popsicles. Sign up here to table. 

 

Earth Month Bird Walk – Lullwater (Emory)  

Friday, April 5, 10:25 a.m. – 12:35 p.m., Lullwater Preserve, 1463 Clifton Road 

Hosted by Georgia Tech Birdwatchers with support from the Office of Sustainability, attendees can observe and learn about birds with club experts at the scenic Lullwater Preserve near Emory’s campus. Binoculars provided.  

For registration and additional information, click here.  

 

Tech Beautification Day 

Saturday, April 6, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Tech Green 

Come get your hands dirty to make our campus green and beautiful at the 25th annual Tech Beautification Day, a volunteering event hosted by the Student Government Association and Infrastructure and Sustainability. The event is capped at 300 volunteers, so sign up today! 

For registration and additional information, click here.  

 

Global Media Festival Film Screening: ‘Bigger Than Us’ Documentary + Live Q&A   

Sunday, April 7, 2:30 – 5 p.m., John Lewis Student Center, Cypress Theater 

Bigger Than Us follows Melati Wijsen, an 18-year-old Indonesian activist fighting plastic pollution in her country as she expands her impact by collaborating with activists across the globe. The screening will be followed by a live virtual discussion with the film’s director, Flore Vasseur.  

This event is part of the Global Media Festival, taking place March 29 – April 7 and exploring themes around the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The festival is co-sponsored by the School of Modern Languages; the Atlanta Global Studies Center; the School of Literature, Media, and Communication; and the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems. 

For registration and additional information, click here.  

 

EcoCommons Tour  

Wednesday, April 10, Noon – 1 p.m., The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design 

The 80-acre EcoCommons is one of Georgia Tech’s most impressive sustainability features. Institute Landscape Architect Jason Gregory will lead attendees on a tour to learn about the native performance landscape adjacent to The Kendeda Building. 

 

Carbon Reduction Challenge Info Session – Virtual  

Thursday, April 11, 11 – 11:50 a.m., Online 

The Carbon Reduction Challenge is a competition focused on empowering students to become part of the climate change solution. Join the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business for a virtual information session to learn more about participating in the challenge this summer.  

For registration and more information, click here.  

 

Climate FRESK Workshops  

  • Thursday, April 11, Noon – 3:30 p.m., Kendeda Seminar Room 118 

  • Monday, April 15, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Kendeda Seminar Room 118 

  • Thursday, April 19, 10 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., O’Keefe Building, third floor, Sunroom conference room* 

Climate FRESK is an internationally recognized workshop based on scientific reports from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change that teaches the fundamental causes and effects of climate change through a collaborative and engaging game. The Office of Sustainability will host three FRESK Workshops throughout April. 

*The workshop on April 19 is co-sponsored by the Georgia Tech French Club and will be held partially in French.  

For more information and registration, click here.  

 

BBISS Seminar Series: Neha Kumar 

Thursday, April 11, 3 – 4 p.m., Hybrid Event – Online and BBISS Offices, 760 Spring Street, Suite 160 

Neha Kumar is an associate professor in the School of International Affairs and the School of Interactive Computing at Georgia Tech. She will present a new paper that describes opportunities for human–computer interaction to reimagine the design of sociotechnical systems toward advancing sustainable, just, and humane futures. 

For more information and the event link, click here.  

 

Atlanta Global Studies Symposium: Languages of Sustainability and the Global South 

Friday, April 12, 8:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Main Auditorium, Technology Square Research Building 

Hosted by the Atlanta Global Studies Center and with support from the Emory University Office of Global Strategy and Initiatives, the symposium will present initiatives that promote global education, language learning, sustainable development, and community engagement. Partners, faculty, students, community organizers, K-12 teachers, and the public are welcome.  

For more information and registration, click here. 

 

Frontiers in Science: Climate Action  

Thursday, April 18, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., The Dalney Building 

The College of Sciences will convene 100 campus and community stakeholders to discuss groundbreaking research on climate change, challenges, and solutions. More than 25 speakers and panelists from across Georgia Tech and Atlanta will share their work and ideas to address major climate and community challenges. Frontiers will also feature leadership keynotes, a student video showcase with scholarships, networking lunch and reception, and a Strategic Energy Institute interdisciplinary seed grant challenge for assistant professors. 

Attendance is by invitation, and registration is limited.  
To suggest participants, please contact: events@cos.gatech.edu. 

 

Carbon Reduction Challenge Spring Showcase 

Friday, April 19, 2 – 4 p.m., The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design 

Eight teams composed of students enrolled in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences 3111, “Energy, Environment, and Society,” will present their final semester-long Carbon Reduction Challenge projects. The projects show more than 9 million pounds of carbon dioxide reductions annually while generating yearly savings of over $500 million in energy bills and carbon sequestration. Attendees can enjoy snacks and drinks and vote for their favorite project.  

For more information and registration, click here.  

 

Sustain-X Hangout 

Tuesday, April 23, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., Hybrid/Scheller College of Business, Room 4426 

A partnership between the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business and CREATE-X, Sustain-X is a Sustainability Next and Georgia Tech strategic plan project. With events occurring on the fourth Tuesday of every month, this session will examine social and environmental entrepreneurship and how to access resources for projects. 

For more information and to register, click here.  

 

Interdisciplinary and Critical Approaches to Sustainability 

Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

The Atlanta Global Studies Center will present a conference entitled “Sustainability in a Planet of Diverse Knowledges and Persistent Inequalities.” The event features Georgia Tech faculty panels   and keynotes from Nelson Maldonado-Torres and Jessica Hernandez on “Colonial and Decolonial Sustainabilities” and “Indigenous Science: From Local to Global Context,” respectively. 

For more information and registration, click here.  

 

BBISS Seminar Series – Fani Boukouvala 

Thursday, April 25, 3 – 4 p.m., Hybrid/BBISS Offices, 760 Spring Street, Suite 160 

Fani Boukouvala, assistant professor in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, will present a talk about a new approach for chemical conversion of waste plastics to their original raw materials, including a detailed process modeling of a chemical reactor validated by experimental data, and proceed with simulation of an entire pilot scale facility.  

For the event link, click here.  

 

Additional events, volunteer opportunities, and campaigns are posted on the Earth Month calendar.  Submit your event to be featured via the Earth Month form. 

Contact

Abby Bower
Sustainablity Program Support Coordinator
Office of Sustainability
Infrastructure and Sustainability

Email: abby.bower@gatech.edu

October Events Celebrate Campus Sustainability Month

Events throughout the month of October offer a glimpse into the wide-ranging commitment to sustainability at Georgia Tech.

October is Campus Sustainability Month, an international celebration of sustainability on college and university campuses. Georgia Tech will host sustainability-focused events all month. With the recent release of the Institute’s Sustainability Next plan, these campus opportunities underscore our commitment to the objectives outlined in the plan. There are numerous options centered on climate and social sustainability topics in addition to trips to explore nature around Atlanta. The programming is hosted by diverse campus groups and offers a glimpse into the wide-ranging commitment to sustainability at Tech.  

Event Lineup 
 

Climate Action Plan Student Engagement Workshop 
Monday, Oct. 2  
5 – 6 p.m.  
The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, Room 210 

As a deliverable of the Sustainability Next Plan, the Georgia Tech Climate Action Plan is a roadmap for integrating climate action strategies across operations, research, and education focusing on climate justice and reducing emissions. Students are invited to join the Office of Sustainability for an interactive, in-person event to learn about the climate action strategies in the plan, share input, and enjoy free pizza. 

For registration and additional information, click here. RSVP required. 

 

Climate Action Plan Campus Town Hall (Virtual) 
Wednesday, Oct. 4  
11 a.m. – noon  
Virtual via Zoom (RSVP Required) 

The entire Georgia Tech community can learn more about the Georgia Tech Climate Action Plan and share input during a virtual campus town hall hosted by the Office of Sustainability. 

For registration and additional information, click here.  

 

Approaching the Limits of Climate Viability: Urban Heat Vulnerability in Atlanta and How to Adapt 
Wednesday, Oct. 4  
Noon – 1:30 p.m.  
Scholar’s Event Theater, First Floor, Price Gilbert Library 

As part of Georgia Tech Library’s initiative to highlight research that makes data accessible and meaningful to the public, Brian Stone Jr., a professor in the School of City and Regional Planning, will present a lecture on the urban heat island effect and its context for Atlanta.  

Find more details and registration information here.  

 

Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Seminar Series, Baabak Ashuri — Valuation of Investment in Sustainable Buildings and Renewable Energy Infrastructure 
Thursday, Oct. 5  
3 – 4 p.m.  
Hybrid Event: BBISS Offices, 760 Spring St., Suite 118, and on Teams 

Baabak Ashuri, a professor in the School of Building Construction and the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and a Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Fellow, will speak about how a new set of tools for the valuation and appraisal of renewable energy projects can enhance investment decision-making.  

 

Liam’s Legacy Symposium 2023: Humanitarian Engineering with Juan Lucena 
Thursday, Oct. 5  
4 – 6 p.m.  
Coda Building, Ninth Floor Atrium 

Juan Lucena, director of the Humanitarian Engineering Undergraduate Program and professor of engineering, design, and society at the Colorado School of Mines will visit Georgia Tech for the annual Liam’s Legacy Symposium. Lucena will explore the relationship between engineers, engineering, and the well-being of communities, social justice, and sustainability.   

This event is presented by the Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education in partnership with the School of History and Sociology, through a grant from the Gertrude and William C. Wardlaw Fund in support of the Conference on Human Rights, Changes, and Challenges. 

 

Sustainable Careers and Shared Value Panel 
Thursday, Oct. 12  
2 – 3:15 p.m.  
Scheller College of Business, Room 221 

Join the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business to hear from three panelists at various stages in their careers and diverse types of corporations about how sustainability is incorporated and how it has shaped their roles. 

More information and registration here.  

 

Lullwater Preserve (Emory) Bird Walk 
Friday, Oct. 13  
7 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  
Meet at Cherry Emerson  

Ride the GT/Emory bus with Birdwatchers @ GT to Lullwater Preserve, a beautiful, forested park on Emory’s Druid Hills campus. Open to beginner and expert birders alike — make sure to RSVP if you need binoculars. 

For more information and registration, click here. 

 

Campus Energy Challenge 
Oct. 16 – 22  
Residence Halls Across Campus 

Housing and Residence Life’s annual Energy Competition takes place the week of Oct. 16. The competition will give all campus residents a chance to see the daily energy use of their residence halls, along with tips on how to reduce their individual use. The residence hall that reduces its use the most will win a prize. 

Contact Malte Weiland, senior sustainability project manager, Auxiliary Services, for more information. 

 

A Conversation With Victor Luckerson, Author of ‘Built From the Fire’ 
Tuesday, Oct. 17  
7 – 8:30 p.m.  
Scheller College of Business, Room 100  

A panel discussion with Victor Luckerson, author of Built From the Fire, moderated by Todd Michney, associate professor in the School of History and Sociology. The book follows a multigenerational saga of a family and a community in Tulsa’s Greenwood district, known as “Black Wall Street,” that in one century survived the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, urban renewal, and gentrification. 

 

Staff Council Drive-Thru Recycling Event  
Wednesday, Oct. 18  
2 – 4 p.m.  
O’Keefe Building Parking Lot, 151 Sixth St. NW 

The Georgia Tech Staff Council and CPEC subcommittee are hosting a recycling collection event for faculty and staff. Drop off items such as plastic bottles, mixed paper, household batteries, electronics, and glass.  

 

Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems Seminar Series – Dylan Brewer: Who Heeds the Call in an Energy Emergency? Evidence from Smart Thermostat Data 
Thursday, Oct. 19  
3 – 4 p.m. 
Hybrid Event: BBISS Offices, 760 Spring St., Suite 118, and on Teams 

Dylan Brewer, an assistant professor in the School of Economics and BBISS Fellow, will present research exploring the relationship between compliance with calls to conserve energy during a shortage situation and in an environment of political polarization.  

 

Climate and Innovation Business Forum  
Friday, Oct. 20  
1 – 5:30 p.m.   
Global Learning Center  

The Climate and Innovation Business Forum will convene stakeholders from various sectors to explore strategies for driving innovative climate solutions. Attendees are invited to participate in discussions on harnessing the potential of climate technology, forging innovative collaborations, and mobilizing capital for environmental and social impact. 

 

Administration and Finance Virtual Town Hall 
Friday, Oct. 20  
2 – 3 p.m.  
Virtual via Zoom gatech.zoom.us/j/95142941085 

Celebrate Sustainability Month at the A&F virtual town hall and learn about activities designed to promote sustainability across the Institute. We will share highlights from the recently published Sustainability Next plan, developing strategies from the Climate Action Plan, and how Georgia Tech is harnessing the power of data throughout our utility management efforts to foster a living campus for all.    

 

Georgia Tech Undergraduate Sustainability Education Panel  
Tuesday, Oct. 24  
11 a.m. – noon  
The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, Room 210 

Learn more about sustainability-focused campus educational opportunities at this panel discussion and hear from affiliated faculty, staff, and students. Snacks will be provided.  

 

Surviving the “Zombie Apocalypse” at Kendeda 2023 
Friday, Oct. 27  
4 – 7:30 p.m.  
The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design 

The Kendeda Building is an example of resilient infrastructure, with its potable water storage, solar power system, composting toilets, and ability to grow food on its rooftop garden. This Office of Sustainability event will focus on the lessons that The Kendeda Building has taught us about sustainability, regenerative design, and the benefits of being more self-sufficient. Join us for a spooky Kendeda Building tour, snacks, and lessons in sewing and food pickling.  

Get tickets here. 

 

Extension of Community: What It Means to Be Sustainable in a Digital World  
Throughout October  

Locations include The Kendeda Building, the Library, and the Georgia Tech Media Bridge 

Experience an interactive art exhibit at the intersection of science and technology addressing sustainability and the climate crisis.  

  • How have our technological and digital developments helped and harmed us?  

  • How can we be more digitally sustainable?  

  • What are the limits of technology and how can we shift our behaviors to help heal the planet? 

Fourteen artists and scientists reflect on community and sustainability within their practice and question the impact of technology on the environment and society. The exhibit, curated by Birney Robert, addresses themes of plastics and waste, social and environmental justice, and imagined futures. 

For more information, click here. 

 

Explore the Campus Sustainability Month 2023 Calendar for a comprehensive list of events and updates. Campus groups, departments, and organizations interested in adding their sustainability-focused event to the calendar can email sustain.gatech.edu. 

Contact

Abby Bower
Program Support Coordinator
Office of Sustainability

Email: abby.bower@gatech.edu

Related Links

The Sustainability Next Plan Transforms Vision Into Reality

On the one-year anniversary of the launch of Sustainability Next, a publicly available version of the plan is being released and several plan initiatives are coming to life.

On the one-year anniversary of the launch of Sustainability Next, a publicly available version of the plan is being released and several plan initiatives are coming to life.

Following the creation of Georgia Tech’s 2020 – 2030 strategic plan, the Institute’s executive leadership team launched a task force to create a strategic sustainability roadmap — the Sustainability Next Plan — to help advance some of its most important goals.

“Sustainability Next is central to Georgia Tech’s commitment to developing leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition,” said President Ángel Cabrera. “As one of the largest technological universities in the world, we have the opportunity and responsibility to help find solutions to the biggest problems we face, achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and support a human population that will soon rise to 10 billion while reducing the stress we’re causing on our planet.”

The plan calls on Georgia Tech to:

  • Be a global sustainability thought leader.
  • Catalyze innovation through education and research.
  • Lead by example in the practice and culture of sustainability.

Since the fall of 2022, Sustainability Next has begun to implement projects, including:

  • The Climate Action Plan to develop a roadmap for integrating climate action strategies across operations, research, and education focusing on climate justice and reducing emissions.
  • Sustainable X, which supports students interested in and passionate about developing climate tech, sustainability, and social impact startups.
  • Sustainability Education Innovation Grants for faculty to expand Sustainable Development Goals concept and skill integration across the undergraduate curriculum.
  • Research Seed Grants to support interdisciplinary climate and sustainability research initiatives.
  • Living Campus connecting Georgia Tech’s built environment and surrounding landscape to serve as opportunities for collaborations between academics, research, industry, operations, and community partnerships.

These initiatives alone have created collaborations between several sustainability-focused departments on campus, including the Office of Sustainability, the Brook Byers Institute for Sustainable Systems, the Ray C. Anderson Center for Sustainable Business, and the Center for Teaching and Learning.

Creating the Foundation for Successful Implementation 

As an outcome of the strategic plan to more intentionally integrate sustainability and lead by example with campus operations, Georgia Tech restructured its facilities management into Infrastructure and Sustainability (I&S) in 2021. The following year, the Office of Campus Sustainability was restructured into the Office of Sustainability within I&S to bridge sustainability efforts across research, education, and operations. It was later expanded to integrate the departments of utilities, sustainable building operations, and The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design.

Additionally, Sustainability Next has supported the Brook Byers Institute in becoming a transformative unit focused on climate and sustainability that integrates research and education. It has also strengthened ties in the sustainability cluster of the Vice President for Institutional Research, comprising the Byers Institute, the Renewable Bioproducts Institute, and the Strategic Energy Institute — including the permanent integration of Serve-Learn-Sustain into the newly established Center for Sustainable Communities Research and Education.

Looking Ahead 

In the next few months, the Sustainability Next Plan will be supported by a refreshed website, a schedule of sustainability-related events, and calls to action, reinvigorating the sustainability charge set forth in the Institute’s strategic plan.

The Sustainability Next co-chairs invite every member and unit of the Georgia Tech community to join in bringing the Sustainability Next Plan to life and expanding its ambitions over time so that we can build a just, equitable, and sustainable future — together.

For continuous updates and to find out how you can get involved, visit the new Sustainability Next webpage. 

Contact

Emma Blandford
Program and Portfolio Manager
Institute for Sustainable Systems

Email: eblandford3@gatech.edu

Related Links