In Saint Louis University (SLU), sustainability is not just about policies; it is about community, shared culture, and real impact.
In the Academic Year 2023-2024, SLU turned its commitment to sustainability into measurable global impact. With a total score of 6,820 out of 10,000 (68.20%) in the 2024 UI GreenMetric rankings, SLU ranked 464th worldwide out of 1,477 participating institutions; 247th in the Asian Region out of 864; and 9th in the Philippines out of 63.
More than statistics, such achievement reflects the University’s steadfastness in translating its mission and its alignment with the Laudato Si’ and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into concrete green practices and community culture.
How to Champion Sustainability through UI GreenMetrics the SLU Way
Embrace green energy initiatives: Energy & Climate (EC)
With a notable 80.95% score in EC, SLU has demonstrated that energy efficiency pays off. The University’s energy management strategies reduced carbon footprint while improving operational savings. In addition, behavior shifts brought about by the university’s environmental and Laudato Si practices such as establishing green spaces in offices, observation of the car-less day and Earth Hours, turning off unused lights, and adopting solar power add up to significant results.
Build a campus that “breathes”: Setting & Infrastructure (SI)
Sustainability begins with the physical environment. SLU scored 64% in SI, reflecting its ongoing efforts to maximize green spaces, manage energy-efficient equipment and facilities, and design campus zones that promote wellness and learning. It is beneficial to regularly conduct campus audits and to identify open areas that can be converted into biodiversity corners or pocket parks. Here we see how intentional space planning balances functionality and ecology.
Value every drop of Water (WR)
At 65%, SLU’s performance in WR underscores the importance of conservation in a city where water access can be challenging. Continuously expanding water conservation systems such as water-reuse systems, rain-harvesting, among others, can strengthen green infrastructure.
Expand waste management measures: Waste (WS)
Waste is a visible sign of campus discipline. SLU’s 62.50% rating in this category highlights both efforts and possibilities. Meaningful opportunities like expanded recycling or composting can make sustainability a collective learning experience.
Exercise conscious commuting: Transportation (TR)
Mobility is a sustainability issue. With a 67.22% score in TR, SLU continues to work on greener commuting options through accessible campus shuttles and pedestrian-friendly zones. The Louisian community encourages carpooling, biking, or even walking.
Teach and research sustainability with Impact: Education & Research (ED)
As a green university, SLU continues to teach sustainability. SLU’s 65.28% rating in ED affirms its continuous work to integrate environmental literacy into its curriculum, research initiatives, and community engagement programs that highlight sustainability.
The lived experiences of SLU in its UI GreenMetric journey shows that sustainability is a principle and an identity. As a CICM institution, the University grounds its mission in the “care of our common home.” This means that sustainability is a living, campus-wide initiative, influencing how Louisians live, learn, and lead on campus.
When higher education institutions like SLU embrace sustainability as a shared culture, it becomes a force for both ecological resilience and social renewal. Through its manifested care for creation, SLU consistently lives out its mantra, Mission et Excellentia.
