ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION LAB
EVR 3011L
CAMPUS ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT
Introduction

While many environmental problems are global in scope, they have their roots in the actions of individuals and institutions, including colleges and universities. Because of the diversity of campus activities, universities represent a microcosm of environmental issues that confront the nations and the world. Many campuses are large enough to have sizable impacts on the environment both through their consumption of large quantities of energy and resources and the generation of substantial amounts of waste.

As major centers for research, teaching, and policy development, campuses possess a wealth of resources for developing innovative solutions of environmental problems and are looked to as examples for other institutions and businesses. Because of these vast resources, campuses also have the responsibility to provide leadership for positive change.

As students, we can work toward making our campuses positive examples for environmentally sound
development and management. Campuses have traditionally been a breeding ground for new thought, and
students have been important catalysts for changes relating to issues such as anti-war movements, civil rights, and apartheid in South Africa. We can do the same for environmental concerns, but we must begin by looking at our own backyard--the campus--and evaluating the environmental impacts of our own actions (UCLA, 1990).

The Audit
This lab is designed to help you become familiarized with the environmental practices on the University Park campus of F.I.U.. For the audit the class will be divided into groups of2-4, with each group evaluating a different environmental aspect of campus operations. The areas you may choose from are:
    (1) Energy
    (2) Transportation--includes commuting and parking
    (3) Solid Waste --particularly paper usage
    (4) Grounds Management-- includes lake management, landscaping,
        and preserve management
    (5) Water--includes waste water and drinking water
    (6) Environmental education and activities
    (7) Dorm issues
    (8) Sustainable development
Each group is to generate and answer at least 6 questions for their chosen area. The questions and answers are
to be written up in a 2-3 page group report.

The Report
The report should consist of: an introduction which includes a brief general description of the University park
campus (where it is located, number ofstudentslfaculty/staff, etc...); the questions and their answers; a
conclusion/discussion section which includes observations and suggestions; and a description of what each
group member did( attached to report). Each member of the group will be graded on the quality of the report as well as their participation in the project.  Throughout the audit, it is recommended that you keep track of the location in which the information was found and why you believe, or don't believe, that there is an environmental problem. It is also recommended that you consult your Miller text and other outside reference materials to help you design your audit.