ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES COMMITTEE
April 15, 2002
Umpqua Room

ATTENDEES: Bob Jones, Christine Thompson, , Greg Stripp, Karyn Kaplan, Vera Kewene, Dorene Steggell, Sean Henderson, Courtney Hight, Anne Forrestel, Julia Heydon, Dean Livelybrooks

Guests: Harriet Merrick, Steve Mital

Old Business

Talloires Declaration Recap:

In past discussions, the Committee determined that the Talloires Declaration is a worthy document and would be something to work toward. The University is already in compliance with many of its principles, however, parts of the document exceed the scope of sustainability issues to which we could realistically commit at this time.

EIC List Serve: Joshua Skov asked to be added to the list serve. It was agreed that he would be.

Environmental Studies Service Learning Program:

Steve Mital received the Committee's suggestions from last month's meeting. He discussed these with Joshua Skov who suggested that the best fit for his students and the University's needs might be: 1.) local organic food purchasing; 2) improve the collection of water and energy use information; and 3) EMU waste audit.

Steve has already spent some time researching the EMU waste audit project. He expressed concern that water and energy use would not provide consistent, long-term work load for his students until energy meters are installed.

Organic food purchasing would be possible; however, Steve would need to do more research. If a good relationship develops with the EMU, organic food could develop into a follow up project next year. Dorene noted that the EIC's suggestion encompassed all campus, not just EMU.

The EMU waste audit would start with a waste stream analysis (cups, paper plates, utensils, etc.) and determine direct cost of waste (hauling, etc.). This would be followed by case studies of other universities, interviews with EMU vendors, food managers, ASUO student leaders to determine incentives and barriers, and a survey of EMU food service customers. Finally, they would organize information, suggest a range of options for improved waste management and educational outreach. They plan to work with a steering committee comprised of John Costello, possibly EIC members, etc. If the EMU project is successful it could be extended to Housing next year.

Christine suggested that work could begin this year on water and energy monitoring for a potential project next year. Dean felt that once one or more meters were installed, it would make for a very good study and suggested that the EIC work on trying to get the meters installed first. Steve is willing to help. Anne characterized this type of study as compelling, topical, important, and urgent. Courtney and the ASUO have been trying to get a meter installed at the EMU this year. ASUO is working toward created an energy coordinator position to continue work on energy conservation next year.

The Committee endorsed the EMU waste audit project for the coming year. EIC invited students to present their final report and do a presentation next Spring.

Steve estimates the total cost will be approximately $12,000 - 15,000. EIC will send a letter to Dan Williams endorsing the EMU waste audit project and requesting $7,500 with intention to have that amount matched. Mary Farrington, EMU Grant Writer, has offered to help raise funds. Steve will also talk to the EMU and ASUO to request matching funds. It was further suggested that the letter should also endorse water and energy conservation as a project for next year and to support continued funding in the future.

Last year the Office of the Provost gave this program $5,000 for general operating funds. Steve hasn't gotten to the stage of requesting funds for the coming year. EIC will provide a letter of support for attachment to Steve's letter.

In Karyn's experience, once the program builds a strong record of accomplishments, proves that it was successful, demonstrates benefits to University students and ways to save money, it is generally refunded.

Bob will draft a letter. Anne and Dean agreed to review it.

Subcommittee Report:

Bob reported that, after numerous meetings and discussions with involved parties, we would submit a proposed sub policy addition to the UO Comprehensive Environmental Policy that would "encourage" the use of non-old-growth, certified sustainably harvested wood products in campus construction projects. It was felt that the OUS Policy regarding impartial business practices (approved at the Feb. 2001 OUS Board meeting) would prevent us from using stronger language that might "require" the use of said wood products. Karyn and Bob will work on drafting the proposal. Harriet Merrick and Bill Kasper will review before we submit it to Dave Hubin.

The next Environmental Issues Committee meeting is from 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21 in the EMU Umpqua Room.