Lake Region State College, located in Devils Lake, North Dakota, is a public community college that offers associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs to students in the region. The college was founded in 1941 and has since grown to serve over 2,000 students annually.

As a higher education institution, Lake Region State College is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. The college has taken several steps to achieve this goal, including implementing energy-efficient technologies, promoting recycling and waste reduction, and investing in renewable energy.

One of the ways that Lake Region State College has reduced its carbon footprint is through the implementation of energy-efficient technologies. The college has upgraded its lighting systems to use LED bulbs, which consume less energy and have a longer lifespan than traditional incandescent bulbs. Additionally, the college has installed motion sensors in classrooms and offices to automatically turn off lights when they are not in use.

Another way that Lake Region State College has reduced its carbon footprint is through its recycling and waste reduction programs. The college has implemented a single-stream recycling program, which allows students and staff to recycle paper, plastic, glass, and metal in a single bin. Additionally, the college has reduced its paper usage by implementing electronic communication systems and encouraging students to submit assignments online.

In addition to these measures, Lake Region State College has also invested in renewable energy. The college has installed a 10 kW solar array on its campus, which generates clean energy and reduces the college's reliance on fossil fuels. The solar array is expected to produce approximately 14,000 kWh of electricity annually, which is equivalent to the energy usage of two average American households.

To further its commitment to renewable energy, Lake Region State College has also entered into a corporate power purchase agreement (PPA) with a local wind farm. Under the PPA, the college will purchase renewable energy credits (RECs) from the wind farm, which will offset the college's carbon emissions from electricity usage. This agreement will help the college achieve its goal of decarbonisation and reduce its impact on the environment.

Lake Region State College's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint is not only beneficial for the environment, but it also has financial benefits for the college. By implementing energy-efficient technologies and investing in renewable energy, the college has been able to reduce its energy costs and save money on utility bills. Additionally, the college's commitment to sustainability has helped attract environmentally conscious students and staff, which has helped improve the college's reputation and increase enrollment.

In conclusion, Lake Region State College is a public community college that is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. The college has implemented energy-efficient technologies, promoted recycling and waste reduction, and invested in renewable energy to achieve its goal of decarbonisation. By taking these steps, the college has not only reduced its impact on the environment but has also saved money on utility bills and improved its reputation. Lake Region State College serves as an excellent example of how higher education institutions can take steps to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability.