Climate Action | Bentley University

The Bentley University Office of Sustainability was established in 2010 after the university signed the American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). Since then, Bentley has made significant, concrete steps to reducing its carbon footprint.

Bentley University's building square footage and population have grown by 3.49% and 4% respectively since 2008. Even with this increase, the university has continued to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% over the same time period.

The biggest contributors to the university's carbon footprint are greenhouse gas emissions from: grid electricity used to light, heat and cool buildings, natural gas burned in boilers on campus to make heat and hot water, commuting and air travel.

Click Here to view Bentley's FY2024 Carbon Footprint Presentation.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a top priority for the university. Each year Bentley's Facilities Management team completes numerous energy efficiency projects, making Bentley one of the most energy efficient universities in its peer group. Projects include LED lighting upgrades, automated ventilation systems, new high efficiency boilers and chillers and the latest HVAC technology. Learn more about energy and Bentley's energy management programs.

Wind Electricity Contract

Bentley University has entered a transaction to purchase electricity generated by the Kibby Wind Farm located in Maine — a move anticipated to power 100% of campus operations through the end of 2027. The four-year agreement, signed in December 2023, aligns with the university’s Sustainability and Climate Action Plan, which commits to carbon neutrality by 2030. – Read More

Onsite Solar

The Bentley Arena is equipped with a cutting-edge solar array on its roof, featuring 1,400 solar panels that generate 40% of the arena's annual electricity needs. This solar array, along with the building's energy efficiency measures, results in 50% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to a typical ice arena of the same size.

This is Bentley University's second on-site solar installation. The first installation, a solar hot water array, was set up in 1979 on the hillside south of the Tree Dorms. This system provided hot water for showers and handwashing, reducing the energy needed to heat water for these purposes. -- Source: Fall 1979 Bentley Observer Newspaper.

Verified Emission Reduction Credits

Bentley purchases Verified Emissions Reductions Credits to offset the emissions created by Faculty and Staff business air travel as well as annual Study Abroad airline travel. By purchasing Verified Emissions Reduction Credits, Bentley is able to offset the greenhouse gas emissions from annual Study Abroad airline travel and contributes to the “greening” of the local electricity grid.

STARS Certified

Bentley University submits their STARS report once every three years.

AASHE's Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System (STARS) is a holistic measure of campus sustainability efforts. Beyond financial payback, STARS affirms the merit of sustainability programs that aim to increase awareness, engagement, and environmental stewardship.

Read Bentley’s entire STARS report.

Bentley was also named a top performer on the Sustainable Campus Index.

Compare Bentley's performance to other STARS-rated institutions.