A sustainable campus is one that is not dependent on vehicles and can be easily traversed by foot or bicycle. The University of Idaho is fortunate to be located in a walkable and bikeable city. Surrounded by scenic bike lanes and walking paths, most Vandals prefer to walk or bike to campus. When we walk, bike, carpool or take the bus to campus, we are reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to a cleaner environment.

In the 2023 Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report, total CO₂ emissions from employees and students commuting to and from campus were 1,435 tons. In 2023, commuting emissions made up only 4% of the university's total emissions profile, highlighting our community's desire to choose sustainable modes of transportation and reduce our collective impact on the environment.

For more information on parking and transportation, visit the Parking and Transportation office’s website.

Why Is This Important?

In 2020, transportation accounted for the largest portion (27%) of U.S. total greenhouse gas emissions. More than half of transportation emissions come from personal vehicles alone. The transportation sector is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions globally; this includes cars, trucks, commercial aircraft and railroads, all of which release greenhouse gas emissions that pollute our environment and accelerate climate change. When we rely solely on our cars to transport us, which are primarily powered by fossil fuels, we are emitting gases that contribute to a warming planet. That is why the University of Idaho encourages Vandals to choose an emissions-free mode of transportation when travelling to campus whenever possible. The University of Idaho is lucky to be in a city with plenty of walking trails and bike lanes that make getting around better for the environment and more fun!

Ways You Can Help

Vandals can help the U of I be a more sustainable campus by choosing emissions-free transportation when possible! Whether it be walking, biking, skating, taking the bus or even carpooling, Vandals can make a difference in keeping our air clean and protecting the environment. When we choose emissions-free transportation, not only are we making a good decision for the community, but also a healthy decision for ourselves. Below we have provided some resources that explain the impact of transportation on the climate and why emissions-free transportation can lead to healthier, happier people.