The University of Missouri's dedication to stewardship at the educational, environmental and fiscal levels originates from its mission of teaching, research, public service and economic development. All planning efforts at Mizzou further support these goals.
Previously, the master plan and sustainability plan have been updated independently. This year, they are intentionally aligned and have expanded to include Intercollegiate Athletics, MU Health System, Residential Life and Campus Dining Services. This powerful combination promotes MU's leadership role within higher education in elevating the link between the physical campus and its profound contribution to the learning and research environment.
MU's master planning process began more than 30 years ago with a devotion to its historic buildings when planning for the future. A commitment to practical renovation and repurposing strategies supports the institution's values and incorporates a practice of fiscal and environmental responsibility. This year, a focus on careful district studies ensures efficient use of the university's core-campus landholdings.
Mizzou has broadened its role as steward of the environment by becoming a leader in compact development, and by establishing policies such as a storm water master plan and sustainable building design guidelines to adopt best-use practices in building and landscape projects. MU has been actively pursuing energy conservation and cost savings opportunities since the mid-1970s. Current plans project a 45 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 75 percent reduction in coal use by 2017. MU is a signatory of the ACUPCC and is an AASHE STARS participant.
As a result of combining the Master Plan and Sustainability Plan, the campus master plan is a more comprehensive and effective tool to use in establishing a framework for the future growth of the university.