Projects and Research in Progress
The Green Fund is actively supporting several projects aimed at enhancing environmental initiatives on campus, and we are always looking to support more.
University Transit Services Ride & Retrieve E-Bike Accordion Closed
Description: The Ride & Retrieve initiative introduces a compact, foldable electric bicycle to streamline how University Transit Services retrieves vehicles from off-campus maintenance sites. Instead of sending two employees in a gas-powered vehicle, one staff member can ride the E-bike to the pickup location, fold it into the serviced vehicle, and drive back, saving time, fuel, and emissions. This project supports more efficient transportation operations while reducing the environmental footprint of fleet maintenance.
Most recent update: Purchased in early October and has already traveled over 200 miles.
Tree Inventory Project Accordion Closed
Description: This project aims to complete a comprehensive inventory of all trees on the NAU Mountain Campus to establish a baseline of tree health, species diversity, and ecosystem services. The resulting dataset will help NAU understand the role campus trees play in carbon sequestration, stormwater mitigation, air pollution removal, and overall campus ecology. The information will also guide Grounds Services in caring for at-risk trees and planning future plantings in areas where shade, biodiversity, or resilience can be improved.
Most recent update: 8,098 trees inventoried; project nearing completion.
Vermicomposting Living Lab Project Accordion Closed
Description: The Vermicomposting Living Lab establishes a functioning on-campus vermicomposting system that turns organic waste into nutrient-rich compost using red wiggler worms. Led by Biological Sciences faculty and supported by an undergraduate compost manager and interns, the project serves as both a research platform and a scalable waste-reduction solution for NAU. By demonstrating a working vermicomposting model, the project will support hands-on learning, reduce landfill-bound food waste, and help integrate sustainable composting practices into campus operations.
Most recent update: Vermicomposting bin construction completed; preparing for CRAP event.
Lab Refrigerator Replacement Accordion Closed
Description: This project replaces outdated laboratory refrigerators with modern, energy-efficient models that significantly reduce electricity use and greenhouse gas emissions. Upgrading cooling equipment across research spaces helps lower NAU’s overall energy consumption while creating a healthier and more reliable lab environment. The project lead is now evaluating the energy savings achieved through the new appliances, which will inform future decisions and may set a new efficiency standard for laboratory equipment on campus.
Most recent update: Refrigerators installed; energy-use data collection underway.