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Sustainability at Catholic University

students sitting on a bench in a a plaza surrounded by greenery on campus

We Are Committed to Sustainability for Our Campus, Local Community, and the World

Catholic University has a deep commitment to sustainability on our campus — as demonstrated by various efforts, in particular our West Campus Solar Array. The University's work on sustainability is led by our Office of Campus Sustainability.

Environmental & Sustainability Efforts at Our University

The University's environmental and sustainability practices are naturally interwoven throughout our campus community. We invite you to explore what we offer at Catholic University, as we find new ways each year to enhance our environmentally friendly campus.

We take pride in our new buildings on campus, especially Garvey Hall, which won a Green Building/LEED sustainability award for its construction and ongoing capacities.
We have several solar panel locations throughout campus. Sustainability is an important part of our green campus.
Trees and many other life-giving landscaping expand across the Catholic University campus, offering a green respite for visitors, students, and faculty.
The West Campus Solar Array offers energy efficiency for the local community and the opportunity for renewable energy credits in the middle of the District.
In June 2024, the community came together to celebrate the switch to solar. There are opportunities to leverage rainwater harvesting and storm-water management and expand sustainability options for the surrounding community.
Recycling and composting is an important part of Catholic University's commitment to sustainability.
The Community Garden on campus is a great way for students and staff to stay connected to the earth and produce fruits and vegetables for those in need.
The Student Government Association has an Environmental Initiative as well as several active Environmental Student Groups who participate in the cultivation of our Community Garden on campus.

Sustainability Stats at Catholic University

Powering On: Our West Campus Solar Array

solar array at dawn

Catholic University's Solar Array, situated on our West Campus, stands as a testament to innovation, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. With its commitment to renewable energy, this initiative serves as an excellent model of sustainable living in our capital city.

Features of the West Campus Solar Array 

  • District-Wide Impact: Situated in the heart of Washington, D.C., the solar array makes a significant contribution to the District's goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2032 and carbon neutrality by 2050.
  • Largest Urban Ground Solar Array: The West Campus Solar array underscores our commitment to innovative and sustainable energy solutions. The size of approximately 19 football fields, it is the region's largest urban ground-mounted solar array.
  • Environmental Savings: Developed in collaboration with Standard Solar, the project is estimated to save 7.115 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually. This is equivalent to removing 1,547 cars from roads annually or eliminating the carbon dioxide emissions from nearly 800,630 gallons of gasoline.
  • Renewable Energy Generation: The solar facility is set to produce 7.5 megawatts-DC/6 megawatts-AC of renewable energy, benefitting both the campus and the local community.
  • Economic Impact: The 20-year projected savings to D.C. subscribers is estimated at $3.5 million, creating economic benefits alongside the environmental advantages.

  • aerial view of solar panels on a roof and a green lawn on campus

    Clean Energy at Catholic University

    Catholic University is powered by clean energy. We not only host the largest solar installation in the D.C. area but also purchase 100% of the electricity used on campus with Green e-Certifications.

  • tree on campus with orange colored leaves in the fall

    Recent Sustainability Achievements

    Our commitment to sustainability is on display in our academics, in our buildings, and on our grounds. And we are being recognized for our results, too.

solar panels on campus

Sustainability Minor

We strive to provide an active example of environmental stewardship, inspired by the conviction that all creation is a gift from God. We offer a minor that combines the liberal arts and sciences — ethics, social sciences, science, and technology — with courses that focus on the practice of sustainability.
Explore the Minor
solar panels on a roof on campus

Office of Campus Sustainability

The Office of Campus Sustainability is committed to improving the environmental well-being of our campus. We strive to promote environmental education and research, preserve resources, reduce expenditures, and generate positive environmental change.
Meet the Staff of the Office of Campus Sustainability
view of campus from archway in mcmahon hall

Take A Closer Look At Catholic University

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