Green Falcon Pledge

Sustainability connects the environment with equity, the economy and society. It involves balancing the resources we need now with considering the needs of future generations. Being sustainable doesn’t have to be expensive or extraordinary. You can make a big difference with small changes!

The Green Falcon Pledge is a collaboration between the Office of Sustainability, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Senate and Environmental Action Group. This was created to engage and educate the BGSU community in active sustainability practices. Each category aligns with the three main pillars of the Climate Action Plan of Bowling Green State University. By taking this pledge, you are committing to be a Green Falcon for this academic year (August – July).

In each category, pick the options that are feasible for you and your lifestyle. We ask you to thoughtfully reflect on these actions and challenge yourself to be more sustainable. If you are already doing any of these actions, please mark it along with your new additions.

We encourage you to renew your Green Falcon Pledge every year. You will receive an email asking you to renew your pledge in one year.

Please email green@bgsu.edu with any questions.

In collaboration among the Office of Campus Sustainability, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Senate and Environmental Action Group.

Name*

First NameLast Name

I am a BGSU ...*

If Other, please specify

Are you*

RenewingTaking the pledge for the first time

Before taking this pledge, how sustainable would you say you are? With 1 being rarely sustainable and 5 meaning you are always sustainable.*

Energy Conservation (select at least two)*

I pledge to turn off my computer or set sleep mode or hibernate when I’m not using it.I pledge to turn off my monitor, PC, copier and printer at the end of the day.I pledge to turn off the lights when I leave any room, bathrooms, or meeting rooms for more than five minutes.I pledge to take the stairs instead of using the elevator.When I work or study late, I pledge to use only the lighting I need to illuminate work areas.I will unplug my electronics chargers, when not in use.I pledge to wash my clothes in cold/warm water and only wash full loads.I will only run full loads of dishes in the dishwasher, and will use a “rinse and hold” feature to prevent food from drying until I have a full load

Water Efficiency (select at least one)*

I pledge to turn off the faucet while brushing my teeth, shaving or washing dishes.I pledge to take shorter showers by a reduction of five minutes.I will use an Energy Star certified dishwasher to efficiently wash dishes at home. Vs. handwashing, an Energy Star certified dishwasher can save up to 5,000 gallons of water per year.

Waste Reduction (select at least two)*

I pledge to print double-sided whenever possible.I pledge to defer to BGSU recycling information, such as that found on my fridge magnet to recycle properly and NOT contaminate the recycling stream.I pledge to reduce my paper use and avoid printing emails.I pledge to recycle all recyclable materials, paper, plastics, aluminum cans and even electronic equipment at the designated receptacle(s) on campus.I pledge to use a reuseable water bottle or coffee mug instead of buying bottled water or using disposable cups.When moving out at the end of the school year, I pledge to donate any unwanted books, electronics, clothing, school supplies, furniture and nonperishable food and hygiene products to the Campus ReStore WYMO program rather than throwing it out.

Food (select at least one)

I pledge to do my best to reduce my food waste in campus dining facilities by not taking more than I can eat.I pledge to use an Ozzi Container when I go to Carillon Place to reduce my waste.I pledge to reduce my meat consumption by having a vegetarian or vegan meal at least 1-2 times per week.I pledge to buy locally grown produce as much as possible.I pledge to avoid foods with high amounts of packaging, such as fast food, as much as possible.I pledge to carry a reusable bag(s) in my car and use them whenever shopping for groceries.

Transportation (select at least one)*

I pledge to walk or bike to campus whenever the weather is nice.I pledge to take a shuttle or bus to campus whenever the weather is not nice.I pledge to seek to carpool with friends and/or offer my car to minimize unnecessary vehicle emissions.

Engagement (select at least one)*

I pledge to volunteer at least 5 hours per semester through Office of Campus Sustainability events on BGSU Serves.I pledge to ask two other friends to take this pledge.I pledge to pay the $5 Student Green Initiatives Fund to go towards sustainable projects on campus.I pledge to donate my unwanted items and belongings to the WYMO program when I move out at the end of the year.I pledge to attend at least one Friday Night Lights a Semester.I pledge to utilize the BGSU ReStore before making purchases when possible.I pledge to follow @greenbgsu on Instagram.

Add your email to complete the Green Falcon Pledge*

Your name will be publicly displayed on a list of Green Falcons. Check this box if you’d like to remain anonymous

I would like to remain anonymous

Signature

Green Falcon Pledge

Pledge to at least the number of actions suggested in each section