Ithaca College has unveiled an ambitious new sustainability campaign, “Blue + Gold = Green,” that aims to galvanize its campus community and cement the college’s reputation as a leader in environmental action. The initiative builds on years of achievements while confronting the urgent climate challenges of the coming decades.
Announced at the 2024 Convocation and led by Director of Energy Management and Sustainability Scott Doyle, the campaign lays out Ithaca College’s roadmap for 2024–25 and its long-term goal: achieving full climate neutrality by 2050. “We have our eyes wide open to the work that will be required over the next 25 years,” Doyle said.
The campaign capitalizes on a strong foundation. The college has cut greenhouse gas emissions by 48% since 2007 and powers its campus with 100% renewable energy—11% of which comes from its own solar farm. IC’s campus boasts four LEED-certified buildings, including two platinum-rated facilities that showcase energy-efficient innovations.
Sustainability is already embedded in academics, with nearly 80% of departments offering relevant coursework. IC’s efforts have earned it national recognition, including a gold rating from AASHE and a top-50 green college ranking by Princeton Review.
But “Blue + Gold = Green” aims to do more. Transportation is a key focus, with 36 new public-use EV charging stations installed on campus, partnerships with TCAT for free transit access, and expanded Ithaca BikeShare availability to help students ditch their cars and cut emissions.
Student-led programs like Eco-Reps play a central role. These peer sustainability ambassadors promote waste reduction, composting, energy conservation, and more—while gaining hands-on leadership experience. Their efforts, like waste-diversion at the Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival, show how small actions can make a big impact.
The college’s sprawling 560-acre Natural Lands also play a starring role. Used for classes, research, and community recreation, these ecosystems offset the carbon emissions of roughly 18 billion smartphones, helping Ithaca College stay rooted in its mission to care for both campus and planet.
Provost Melanie Stein captured the ethos of the campaign in a message to students: “Sustainability is not a buzzword. It is a call to action.”
With “Blue + Gold = Green,” Ithaca College is answering that call—one course, one campus policy, and one student leader at a time.
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