Campus Operations

Buffalo State installs low water fixtures in all of its new and renovated buildings.  The Burchfield Penney Art Center, an especially water-efficient facility, uses about 50 percent less water than most other buildings of its type.

In compliance with requirements of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Buffalo State evaluates building and site projects that increase impervious area -- impermeable surfaces, such as pavement or rooftops, which prevent the infiltration of water into the soil.  The campus then implements storm water runoff reduction or structural management practices -- such as bio-retention areas -- to treat water before it is discharged into nearby Scajaquada Creek. Bio-retention areas were designed for the new Technology Building, Science and Mathematics Complex, and Caudell Hall projects.

Compared to conventional diesel fuels, biofuels produced from waste oils and grease emit significantly less of the carbon monoxide, particulate matter and volatile organic chemicals that cause smog and contribute to health problems. Buffalo State segregates and ships spent kitchen grease and cooking oil from Buffalo State Dining and Campus House to approved facilities for recycling, reclamation and use in the production of biodiesel as well as swine feed.

The campus also regularly segregates and ships solvents, oils and vehicle batteries for recycling.

Ingredients in some cleaning products can adversely affect air quality, pollute the water and cause damage to wildlife. Buffalo State uses "green" cleaning products and agents in 95 percent of its custodial efforts. The campus also uses neutralization procedures in its chemistry labs that lessen chemical waste.

In addition, Buffalo State has installed some diesel exhaust retrofits on its vehicles.  These are designed to capture particulates before they are released into the air.

An energy assessment of Buffalo State's centralized campus heating plant and steam distribution system and its operation was completed by a qualified energy assessor in accordance with criteria specified by Environmental Protection Agency regulations.  The assessment identified strategies for improvement and a timeframe for recouping investments in improved energy efficiency.

Buffalo State has received grants and incentives from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) as a result of its sustainable approaches to energy usage in buildings such as the Burchfield Penney Art Center and the Student Apartment Complex.

The college has participated in NYSERDA's new construction program, which provides incentives for technical assessments of building designs and equipment choices that improve energy efficiency.

The college works in partnership with an energy service company to provide energy system improvements on campus.  Lighting upgrades, water-saving devices, demand control building ventilation, and chiller and pump replacements are just a few of these energy-saving and cost-saving upgrades.

In addition, Buffalo State purchases renewable energy for its Student Apartment Complex and chooses ENERGY STAR equipment when acquiring or replacing its products.  ENERGY STAR is a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency voluntary program that helps businesses and individuals save money and protect the climate through superior energy efficiency. 

Buffalo State also practices "green procurement," complying with New York State Executive Order No. 4 requiring the purchase of recycled, chlorine-free paper products, among other measures.