The New York League of Conservation Voters, which works to make environmental sustainability a top policy and political priority in New York State, last week honored several area colleges for their commitment to environmental education and “green” initiatives.

The colleges that received the 2009 Environmental Champion Awards included Purchase College, College of New Rochelle, Manhattanville College, Sarah Lawrence College, and Westchester Community College.  The reception took place Feb. 17 at Reid Castle at Manhattanville College.

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli was the keynote speaker.

Purchase College announced the news in a press release, adding the following:

Two years ago, Thomas J. Schwarz, President of Purchase College, signed an agreement to reduce the college’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent by 2050.  Since that time, the college has taken steps large and small to reduce its carbon footprint.  They include hiring a sustainability coordinator, completion of a greenhouse gas inventory, implementation of a green building policy for all new construction, the installation of energy- efficient equipment and a redesign of the Campus Plaza to reduce runoff and water pollution.  Purchase College is also studying the use of solar thermal and photovoltaic devices for inclusion in future roofing designs.

“Purchase has taken the lead in making it campus and operations more environmentally sustainable,” said Marcia Bystryn, President of the New York League of Conservation Voters. “We are proud to honor Purchase College for taking a wide range of steps—from improving energy efficiency to boosting recycling—that puts this institution at the forefront of the nation’s sustainability efforts.”