University of Denver Hosts Green Schools Summit

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) presented its 7th Annual Green Schools Summit last Friday. The Environmental and Natural Resources Law and Policy Graduate Program, which is committed to promoting sustainability, was one of the proud sponsors of the event.

The Summit held sessions geared towards two types of professionals: educators and industry experts. The sessions covered a variety of topics such as Implementing Sustainability Initiatives Successfully, Behavior Change Strategies, Trends in Energy Efficiency, Achieving Intended Performance from School Buildings, and Building Sustainable Garden Programs at the District Level.

The event’s Keynote speaker was Stephen Ritz, an acclaimed TED presenter, educator, and founder of the Green Bronx Machine. Mr. Ritz has successfully implemented sustainable opportunities in schools in the Bronx, like the first indoor edible wall in NYC, which generates enough produce to feed 450 students. Follow the link to hear Mr. Ritz’ TED talk.

Assistant Director Lucy Daberkow attended the Summit. “Instilling the concept of sustainability at an early age is definitely crucial when it comes to the greening of schools. This Summit gave the attendees some excellent ideas on how to successfully implement sustainability initiatives easily and at low cost. Creating school spaces that are sustainable, energy efficient, and healthy promotes a sense of pride and ownership in students.”