Five local colleges on list of most eco-friendly

PROVIDENCE – The Princeton Review’s new “Guide to 286 Green Colleges” names five local universities among the nation’s most eco-friendly campuses.
In Rhode Island, Brown University, Bryant University, Roger Williams University and the University of Rhode Island were cited in the new guidebook. In nearby Norton, Wheaton College was recognized.
The free guide cited Brown’s retrofits of lights and mechanical equipment and LEED certification for new construction among the school’s sustainability efforts.
At Bryant, the guide noted, students have the opportunity to conduct research on environmental issues in China. The school also has a Center for Sustainable Business Practices.
The guide applauded Roger Williams’ formation of “eco reps,” a team of 12 students who raise awareness about sustainability among students, among other things.
URI was cited for its plan to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and become carbon neutral. And Princeton Review noted that Wheaton’s dining services overhauled its operation to incorporate sustainable practices. •