MSU
From how grass gets cut to what's being used to scrub toilets, some university departments are turning to more environmentally friendly ways to run MSU.
In the everyday tasks to operate a major university, employees are making small changes to protect the environment, which also can end up saving money.
Instead of using diesel gasoline, mowers now use biodiesel fuels when they mow grass on campus, said Gerry Dobbs, the grounds maintenance manager.
Biodiesel fuels, which can be made from soybean oil, burn cleaner than diesel fuels, Dobbs said, adding that they also use biodiesel lubricants, oils and grease for other equipment.
The department mows most areas every other week to save on fuel.
"On a population-dense campus, we're especially concerned about carbon emissions," Dobbs said.
Department workers mow highly visible areas of campus more frequently, such as the area near the Administration Building, and use a higher blade so grass doesn't need to be mowed as often, Dobbs said.
Walking south of the Red Cedar River, some passers-by may even notice "no-mow zones" where the grass is tamed as little as once a year.
"With the 'no-mow zones,' we're trying to create a habitat for birds, beneficial insects and other native species," Dobbs said.
He said higher grass helps prevent runoff of fertilizers and other substances into the river.
Other departments use substitutes to help clean up the environment.
MSU custodial services use a "green" cleaner for tasks like washing the floors, said Gus Gosselin, director of building services.
To see another way MSU officials make an effort to help the environment, look up.
The university is experimenting with "green roofs" on top of the Plant and Soil Sciences and the Communication Arts and Sciences buildings.
The flat roofs are covered with a membrane that decrease energy costs, protect the buildings from extreme weather and help hold storm water, said Brad Rowe, a horticulture associate professor.
The larger, 3,500 square feet of roof atop the Plant and Soil Sciences building helps hold storm water.