Students impact lasting, sustainable change on campus through Green RFP Program
Since 2010, student-generated campus sustainability projects have spurred over $1 million in energy-efficient upgrades across the Virginia Tech campus.
Each fall, through the award-winning Green RFP Program, the Office of Sustainability seeks proposals from student groups for campus sustainability projects that support Virginia Tech’s Climate Action Commitment, with a strong focus on energy conservation and efficiency.
Green RFP Program details and application requirements were announced in a Sept. 16 Virginia Tech Facilities Department memorandum.
LED lighting across all corners of campus; water bottle refill stations in academic, dining, and residence facilities; and nearly 100 bike racks across the university are among the myriad sustainability projects in action today that originated from student requests.
The Office of Sustainability, operated within the Facilities Department, is currently seeking proposals for the Green RFP Program for the 2019-20 academic year. The proposal application deadline is Nov. 8.
One of the program’s most unique features is that the entire process takes place in the same academic year. Proposals are submitted in the fall, reviewed during winter break, and presented to university senior leadership for approval and funding consideration in the spring. Project implementation is initiated prior to commencement.
“It has been exciting to watch two of the proposals I have been a part of come to life and be implemented in the Math Emporium. The Green RFP Program provides an invaluable opportunity for students to impact sustainable change on the Virginia Tech campus,” said senior Daniel Webb.
Students can also benefit from the proposal process, acquiring real-world experiences that will serve them not only in the sustainability field, but in almost every sector. In crafting proposals, students gain first-hand project management, business writing, and budgeting experience. They also get mentorship from faculty subject matter experts who volunteer their time to help students fine-tune their proposals.
How to apply:
The Office of Sustainability is now seeking proposals for the Green RFP Program for the 2019-20 academic year. Click here to learn more about the Green RFP Program and click here to download the proposal application. All proposals must be submitted via email by Nov. 8, 2019, at 4 p.m.
Proposals that support the Virginia Tech Climate Action Commitment, produce realizable savings, and require one-time (as opposed to ongoing) funding are given preference. The goal of the program is to have approved proposals funded and implemented within the same academic year. Approved proposals will be announced during spring semester 2020.
For more information or for any questions, contact the Office of Sustainability at 540-231-5184.
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