Digging Deep Into Dumpster Data
We’re building our zero waste playbook—starting with the stats. By hand-sorting our trash, we’re uncovering strategic cuts to the landfill.
From orchestrating a sustainably-operated concert to expanding reuse and recovery focused initiatives, the year held a lot of “firsts” for sustainability at Stanford. Our latest metrics and top stories defined a year of strategic growth, positioning the university for continued leadership in climate action.
Milestone By the Numbers
82%
reduction of Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions
68%
landfill waste diversion achieved
41%
reduction in potable water use since 2001
3
years of 100% renewable electricity
Top Stories of the Year
Advancing Stanford’s Climate Action Through Transportation Planning
The campus community is shaping transportation decisions that support long-term climate action.
Digging Deep into Dumpster Data
Data is driving Stanford’s progress toward zero waste, improving recycling, composting, and landfill systems campus-wide.
2025 Food Recovery, Wrapped To-Go: Climate and Community Wins
Stanford’s expanded food donation program delivers high-quality meals to the community and reduces waste.
Rethinking Protein Portions in Stanford Research Study
Behavioral nudges in dining halls reduced food-related emissions without limiting choice or satisfaction.
Saving Energy at Scale Through Cross-Campus Collaboration
Over $2.7 million in energy savings at the School of Medicine, in partnership with Facilities Energy Management, shows the power of energy efficiency innovation.
Second Life for Signature Tiles
Creative adaptive reuse extended the life of campus materials while reducing waste and emissions.
Stanford Marks 10 Years of Energy System Innovations
SESI’s decade of impact shows how sustained innovation and partnerships advance energy solutions at Stanford.
Stanford’s First Major Concert Amplifies Sustainability to 60k Fans
This first-of-its-kind concert embedded sustainability into large venue operations, reaching 60,000 concertgoers.
Water-Wise Gardens Supporting Pollinators and Biodiversity
The first insect hotels on campus paired water-wise landscaping with new biodiversity and pollinator conservation efforts.
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Stanford is the Top-Scoring Institution for Sustainability Under AASHE STARS 3.0
The university earns STARS Platinum in version 3.0, the highest score under the sustainability rating system.
Less Plastic, More Impact: How Our Alumni Travel Program Is Reducing Single-Use Waste
Stanford Travel/Study, an educational travel program for alumni and friends of the university, is tackling plastic waste trip by trip.