The University of Notre Dame stopped burning coal at its power plant Monday, more than a year ahead of schedule.
Notre Dame President, Father John Jenkins delivered the last load of coal to the University in efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.
Notre Dame has already cut its carbon emissions in half. The University got to this point by using energy-efficient lighting, green roofs, two new combined-cycle natural gas units, and other technologies.
Jenkins said Notre Dame has a responsibility to lead by example for its students.
“Young people, they listen to what you say but they look at what you do and I hope these steps, they’ll provide an example of how we can have a sustainable future. We can have a relationship to the earth and our environment that is not simply exploitative.”
The University plans to use more renewable energy sources in the future and expects to be carbon-neutral by the end of 2050.
Contact Annacaroline at acaruso@wvpe.org or follow her on Twitter at @AnnacarolineC16
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