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• Sustainability Update 2008 [172k .doc]

Transportation

Accomplishments

An emphasis on a pedestrian campus has become, yet again, a high priority of the college, as was noted earlier in the document. Access to public transportation is available nearby in the town of Wellesley and a college contracted bus services provide mass transit alternatives to various locations for students, faculty and staff.

Zip Cars
Zip Cars have been tested at the college and have proven to be a viable and flexible alternative to maintaining several vehicles in the college’s fleet.

The leasing and testing of ten electric powered Ford Ranger trucks was very promising as an alternative to gasoline or diesel powered vehicles. The trucks were charged from electricity produced by the college’s cogeneration plant at an approximate cost of one to two dollars per day. Unfortunately, lack of support, especially in terms of available repair parts, led to the abandonment of these vehicles.

Initiatives

1. Review the Motor Pool fleet to reduce number of vehicles, to increase efficiency, and to employ non-standard energy sources.
   
   Implementation: Reduce the number of vehicles and replace older vehicles with more energy-efficient models like smaller utility vehicles and/or alternative energy vehicles. Test utility vehicles which may be viable replacements for many of the college’s larger service vehicles in 2007. Calculate number of vehicles for viable replacement, review funding required to develop a 5 year plan.
   
   
2. Investigate, test and change to the use of biodiesel for the fleet.
   
   Implementation: Initial testing spring 2008 with continued follow-up. There may be an issue with more frequent fuel filter changes and gelling during colder months. Other institutions have noted only minor problems with 20% biodiesel, which is commercially available.
   
   
3. Promote car pooling and use of public transportation. Preferred parking and easier access to public transportation will be investigated.
   
   Implementation: Work with the Sustainability Committee to increase awareness, incentives and participation. (Ongoing)
   
   

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