Money Wise
UNLV's efforts to reduce energy use and save water have caught the attention of a government watchdog group.
For keeping energy costs down despite campus growth, the facilities management department received the 2009 Cashman Good Government Award. The efforts have saved the university $11 million since 2001.
Given by the Nevada Taxpayers Association, the annual award recognizes efficient and effective use of taxpayer funds.
Examples of the department's efficiency include:
- Converting more than 855,000 square feet of turf to water smart landscaping, a savings of up to 45 million gallons of water each year
- Reducing water use by 45 percent per square foot, despite near constant campus growth
- Reducing electricity and natural gas use by 38 percent per square foot
The department also was recognized for maintaining the university's xeric demonstration garden and for the Rebel Recycling Program — both models of sustainability for the community. In 2008, UNLV recycled more than 697 tons of material — an average of 2.8 tons per workday.
About the Award
The Cashman Good Government Award was established in 1997 by the Nevada Taxpayers Association in honor of the Cashman family for its community involvement and civic engagement. It is the association's highest honor for a public employee or program.
Related Information
Facilities Management
Las Vegas Review-Journal story
Las Vegas Sun story
