Syracuse University

As part of its ongoing leadership in promoting and practicing activity that
contributes to a more sustainable environment, Syracuse University has changed its
temperature policy to conserve energy and reduce the amount of greenhouse gas
emissions released through the heating and cooling processes.

By reducing the temperature of University-occupied spaces by two degrees in the
heating season (Sept.15-May 15), and raising the temperature threshold one degree
in the cooling season (May 16-Sept.14), the University will realize an annual
reduction of 1,683 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, the equivalent emissions
of providing energy to 149 homes or 308 passenger vehicles each year. Therefore,
effective immediately, the new temperature policy for the heating season will have a
set point at 68 degrees, and the cooling season set point will be 76 degrees. Cooling
temperatures only apply where air conditioning equipment currently exists.
Exceptions to the temperature settings include laboratories, research areas and
art/book archives.

If an individual would like to inquire about the University's temperature policy as it
relates to his or her working or residential space, the following actions should be
taken:

• Faculty and staff should contact the Zone Office (or Physical Plant), and a
  technician will take a temperature reading. If an issue is found, it will be
  corrected on a priority basis.
  

  
  

• Students in residence halls are to contact the main desk, their resident advisor
  or FixIt (443-4948) directly.
  

  
  

• Dining halls have maintenance staff on duty to respond to problems.
  

To be effective, the new temperature policy continues to be coupled with the policy on
the use of air conditioners or space heaters, which limits the use and installation of
window air conditioners, portable spot coolers and portable space heaters. This policy
can be viewed at: http://supolicies.syr.edu/facilities/

The new temperature policy also aligns with the University's commitment to the
American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, signed by
Chancellor and President Nancy Cantor in February 2007, which is a pledge to
further reduce the emission of greenhouse gases on campus.