Virginia Recycling Association touts RU program

VRA-Award

The Virginia Recycling Association (VRA) has given Radford University its Outstanding University Program award for 2015.

Each year, VRA recognizes the best waste reduction and recycling programs in the state at an annual awards ceremony. Nominations are sought from the public and private sectors, business, industry, schools, government and nonprofit agencies, civic or volunteer organizations and individuals.

Radford University Recycling Coordinator Pavan Muddanna accepted the award on behalf of the university at the VRA's annual conference in Virginia Beach on May 6.

Radford University is committed to serving as a model for sustainable campus practices and policies. It is recognized for its stewardship of economic, social, and environmental resources and for its academic commitment to sustainability.

The VRA award is the latest acknowledgement of Radford University's sustainability initiatives.

In April, The Princeton Review recognized the university in its Guide to 353 Green Colleges: 2015 Edition for its commitment to building and maintaining a sustainable, environmentally friendly campus. It was the sixth consecutive year Radford University has been recognized by the education service company.

Radford University also has been touted for submitting its Climate Action Plan with a target climate neutrality date of 2040, for its four LEED Gold building certifications and for being the recipient of the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star certification for six buildings, five of which are residence halls. RU is the only university in Virginia to receive certification for residence halls, the publication noted.

Radford University also has partnered with the City of Radford to provide the Radford Transit system which offers expanded service and hours around campus and beyond. RU has also participated in a car-sharing program. All of these efforts reflect the university's dedication to sustainability, Muddanna said.

Radford also participates in the annual Recyclemania event, a friendly competition among college and university recycling programs in North America. This year, students, faculty and staff pitched in a total of 83,980 pounds of recyclable materials over the eight-week period.

May 12, 2015