Our Commitment to Sustainability

Penn State is globally recognized as a sustainability leader. As a department within the Penn State Office of Industrial Partnerships (OIP), we actively incorporate sustainability into our outreach, education, and training. The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), otherwise known as the Global Goals, are a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. They are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity. As a commonwealth-wide service provider, we are committed to ensuring the SDGs and the Penn State strategic plan for ensuring a sustainable future guide our work across the state, striving for environmental, human and economic vitality, both now and in the future. 

More specifically, we help our clients reduce their impact on the environment through innovative and holistic assessments. The technical assistance we provide results in the reduction of energy use, water use, hazardous materials generation and business costs. When our clients implement our sustainable and cost-effective strategies, the economy and overall sustainability of the surrounding community benefits.  

We also engage Penn State students through capstone projects and internships, providing them with hands-on experience conducting energy audits and learning from our expert technical advisors how to make the most sustainable and energy efficient recommendations for clients. 

To learn more about the SDGs, please visit the UN’s website. Our commitment to these goals is evident in the work we do, and you’ll see the goals referenced throughout our website. Contact us to learn more about how we are prioritizing sustainability. 

Of the 17 SDGs, we have elected nine that we are most closely aligned with and are contributing to achieving as an organization.