Dear Ithaca College Campus Community:
As we fast approach winter break, I wanted to reach out to offer best wishes for a restful and recharging break. I further wanted to encourage you to power down your workspaces for that time away. This is something you can do whether you are working on campus or even if you are based remotely. Please join your campus colleagues in working together to save energy within your offices, labs and common areas. Simple actions can save a considerable amount of energy and reduces IC’s carbon emissions as a step toward our goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 – or sooner. (add link https://www.ithaca.edu/sustainability-ithaca )
Please consider taking the following key actions in spaces you occupy:
- Power off the computers and monitors in offices, labs, and classrooms. Shut down computers with the power button or from the Start menu. Leave the power strips switched on and everything plugged in.
- Unplug any office electronics plugged directly into the wall or a power strip, except for computers and refrigerators. Many devices use electricity even when "turned off," including printers, chargers, copiers, coffee makers, microwaves, lamps, and space heaters.
- Turn off lights.
- Close & lock all windows.
- Open curtains and shades.
- Shut all interior and exterior doors.
- Do not turn off heat. This will prevent freezing of pipes and damage to buildings. You should however set thermostats on the minimum setting (around 65°F), if easily adjustable. Move items so they are not in front of heating units.
- Shut the sash completely on all fume hoods.
- Report facilities issues like leaky faucets, running toilets, overly hot or cold rooms. Contact the Facilities Customer Care Center with questions or to place a work order https://www.ithaca.edu/office-facilities/customer-care-center.
Remind colleagues to take these actions before they leave for break as well. Together we can help to save energy and reduce campus emissions.
Enjoy a restful and recharging break.
Scott D. Doyle
Director, Energy Management and Sustainability