As a signatory to the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, Seattle University adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2009 stating the university’s intentions to more comprehensively address climate change and advance sustainability. One of the main CAP goals was to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). In 2009, the university emitted an estimated 22,357 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents. Seattle University committed to work towards climate neutrality and reduce emissions by at least 12% by 2020 and by at least 51% by 2035 from buildings, solid waste, university-owned vehicles, air travel, and commuters to campus. Because of the reduction in single-occupant vehicle commuting, investments in new campus infrastructure, and increased composting, SU has seen a reduction of 10% of its greenhouse gas emissions since 2009. In fiscal year 2017, SU’s greenhouse gas emissions totaled 16,772 metric tons.
