What's your Sustainability Pledge for 2013?

Did you know that unplugging appliances when not in use or
using a power strip eliminates ‘vampire’ energy—small amounts of electricity
sucked up by anything with a plug when it’s not in use? PSU EcoReps reached out
to over 50 students Wednesday night as part of a build-up to Campus
Conservation Nationals. PSU is participating in Campus Conservation Nationals
this year in an effort to reduce electricity and water use in the residence
halls. During the event, EcoReps spread the word about positive actions
students can take to be sustainable, and encouraged them to make a ‘sustainability
pledge.’ Each student who pledged was entered in a raffle of prizes that would
help them to make more sustainable choices, like power strips that stop sucking
‘vampire’ energy when turned off.

Lots of students were excited to
learn that taking a pledge to be sustainable can be as simple as turning the
heater or lights off when gone during the day. One student even pledged to turn
the lights off for a full 24 hours! The event was held in Ondine, outside of
the student dining hall to meet students on their way in and out of dinner. Additionally,
dinner in Victor’s was held by candle light, reducing the amount of lights on. The
meal served was made with almost all local food! Victor’s staff pledged to
purchase as much of their food as possible from local vendors. The willingness
of students to interact and be part of the sustainable community at Portland
State was incredible. Hopefully the momentum will build, inspiring students in
the residence halls and all across campus to conserve as part of Campus
Conservation Nationals and in their futures!            

Look out for PSU EcoReps on campus in the coming
months!