Second Nature and the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced that Loyola University Chicago and Portland Community College are the recipients of the eighth annual Climate Leadership Awards.

“By prioritizing sustainable practices and environmental literacy as part of their mission, Loyola University Chicago and Portland Community College are leading the charge in mitigating climate change and fostering well-rounded and informed global citizens,” said Jaime Van Mourik, vice president of education at USGBC. "We are thrilled to recognize this year’s winners, honorable mentions, and finalists for their dedication to creating a strong culture of sustainability and stewardship in higher education, and encourage others to follow in their footsteps."

This year’s recipient in the four-year category, Loyola University Chicago, has reduced carbon emissions by 38% from a 2008 baseline per square foot of facility in two of its locations, and is now home to 10 LEED-certified buildings across four campuses with more green roofs than any other university in the Midwest. Portland Community College, recipient in the two-year category, has reduced energy consumption by 65% per square foot since 2006, counts nine LEED-certified buildings including a net zero LEED Platinum center in its portfolio, and has three solar installments totaling more than 700 KW.

The Climate Leadership Awards recognize advanced leadership in sustainability, climate change mitigation, and resilience at college and university campuses that are part of Second Nature’s Climate Leadership Network. Second Nature is a national nonprofit that works to accelerate climate action in, and through, higher education.

“The Climate Leadership Network continues to drive innovative solutions, which is the only way the sector and the nation will continue to remain globally competitive,” said Tim Carter, president of Second Nature. "This demonstrates to students — our next generation of leaders — what a commitment to climate action looks like.”

The 2017 Climate Leadership Award winners and honorable mentions are:

Two-Year Institution Winner: Portland Community College

Honorable Mention: Bristol Community College

Four-Year Institution Winner:  Loyola University Chicago

Honorable Mention: Georgia Southern University

Award winners will be recognized as part of the 2017 USGBC Leadership Awards Luncheon at the Greenbuild International Conference & Expo on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017, in Boston.