University Commitments

Rice University is a member of University Leaders for a Sustainable Future, a consortium of colleges and universities around the world that have committed to being leaders in environmental education for both students and the public. Through USLF, Rice President Malcolm Gillis signed the Talloires Declaration in 1995, which states the University's commitment to environmental education and to becoming an environmentally responsible institution.

Rice is also a member of the National Council for Science and the Environment, a research-based organization that promotes the use of science in environmental decisionmaking.

In March 2004, The Board approved the following sustainability policy:

Rice University recognizes the critical importance of sustainability. Its present needs must be met while protecting the interests of future generations. The Shell Center for Sustainability, the Center for the Study of Environment and Society, the Environmental and Energy Systems Institute and student organizations should be utilized to foster environmental consciousness and mitigate the university’s ecological footprint. Rice University works with students, faculty and staff to improve environmental sensitivity. University practices will evolve along with the Rice community to keep abreast with changing needs and new technologies. The university believes that students who graduate from Rice need to understand the concepts of sustainability and possess a sense of responsibility for the future.

Sustainable Operations

Integrated Waste Management Program

Rice's Integrated Waste Management Program has improved significantly in the last few years, with a large increase in recycling across campus. Facilities and Engineering is continually working to improve lighting efficiency on the campus - this year, three new buildings are being fitted with energy-efficient lighting.

Composting Project

The goal of the composting project is to decrease the Rice community's environmental impact by recycling food and yard waste. Part of the project is the Rice Earth Tub, which is now located behind Sid Rich college. Compost from the Earth Tub is used on campus.

Click here for a comprehensive list of sustainability activities at Rice.

Institutes and Centers

Center for the Study of Environment and Society (CSES)

CSES coordinates courses and curricula on environmental topics offered in the schools of Engineering, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Humanities.

Environmental & Energy Systems Institute (EESI)

EESI supports and coordinates programs of education, research and community service that promote the guardianship of environmental quality and natural resources for present and future generations.

Shell Center for Sustainability

In 2002, Rice University and the Shell Oil Company Foundation founded the Shell Center for Sustainability to create an interdisciplinary program of education, research, and outreach to address the role of the private sector in implementing a sustainable future.

Other Initiatives

Natural History Database

The Natural History Database contains lists of and information about the various flora and fauna on the Rice campus.

Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum

The Lynn R. Lowrey Arboretum at Rice University, dedicated on March 18, 1999, honors the distinguished horticulturist whose life and work were dedicated to spreading knowledge and appreciation for the trees and plants of the Gulf Coast of the United States and northern Mexico. The arboretum features native Texas trees and shrubs, but also seeks to enhance diversity by incorporating other species as appropriate to teaching and research needs. For further information, please contact the Arboretum Coordinator at arboretum@rice.edu.