The University is committed to creating, sustaining, and celebrating our built and natural environments through dedication to sustainability initiatives in every stage of planning, design and construction. Our work to transform 145 acres of an established, urban campus into a modern sustainability leader has spanned decades, with ongoing foci on healthy indoor out outdoor places, energy and water use reduction, stormwater and landscapes, materials diversion, innovative equipment and construction, and more.
In 2018, the Pitt Sustainability Plan was released and identified key impact areas to keep the University focused and track progress on sustainability goals. Campus construction and renovations are important contributors for a large number of these impact areas, in addition to playing a critical role in Pitt’s goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2037.
Recognizing its stewardship and leadership roles, the University seeks to incorporate the environmental, equity, and economic concepts of sustainability into the design, construction, operations, and maintenance of its buildings and landscapes, while maintaining safety and preserving comfort.