I²SL Sustainability Scoop

March 2017

I²SL University Alliance Group:
Bringing Efficiency to Research Grants

In the face of ever-intensifying competition among academic research institutions for limited federal funds, the I²SL University Alliance Group provides a united front for sustainability. To motivate change, the group fosters connections, awareness, and solutions that empower research institutions to harmonize sustainability efforts with research goals.

Since 2015, the University Alliance Group has gained momentum with Greening Grants, an initiative that promotes including sustainable, cost-effective measures—such as sharing equipment and using lab space efficiently—in federally supported research. Now known as Bringing Efficiency to Research Grants (BETR Grants), the initiative builds bridges among scientists, institutions, and federal agencies to advance the conversation on integrating sustainability into federal research funding and harnessing sustainability's benefits.

If you're ready to make strides in research with a smaller environmental footprint, the University Alliance Group is ready to assist! To get started, access presentations and notes from the Greening Grants meetings at the 2015 and 2016 Better Buildings Summits, which address the need for greening grants and lessons learned from the U.S. and beyond.

Digging Deeper Into the University Alliance Group

• If you want to lend your perspective or expertise in sustainability within academia, consider becoming a member of the University Alliance Group. Read the "Get Involved" section of the group's web page to learn more.
• Plan to attend the Bringing Efficiency to Research Grants informational session at the 2017 Better Buildings Summit on Tuesday, May 16, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Eastern. View the agenda for more details.
• You can also connect with the University Alliance Group at the 2017 I²SL Annual Conference. Stay tuned for more information.