Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Study
Carbon neutrality is a key strategy in addressing climate change. It is achieved by balancing the amount of carbon dioxide emitted with an equal amount removed or offset, resulting in net-zero carbon emissions. By measuring emissions, reducing them through actions like using renewable energy, and offsetting the rest through projects like reforestation or clean energy investments, we can reach our goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.
The Integral Ecology Initiative has taken its first major step toward reducing our carbon footprint by issuing a request for proposals (RFP) to conduct a comprehensive sustainability and energy efficiency study for the Sisters of Charity Leavenworth (SCL) and University of Saint Mary (USM) combined campus.
This audit will help us understand where we are starting from by establishing a baseline from which we can transform our campuses into models of sustainable operations aligned with Catholic Social Teaching.
The study’s results will guide future investments and help shape our roadmap toward net carbon neutrality for our combined operations by 2030, from assessing greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage to recommending renewable energy options and sustainable transportation solutions. Critically, the RFP emphasizes education and engagement, inviting input from students, staff, and Sisters to ensure we build lasting solutions together.
We hope to select a qualified vendor who shares our values and embark on this collaborative journey later this summer.
Knowledge Exchange with Loyola University Chicago
The Integral Ecology Initiative has already started the important work of building learning communities. SCL, USM, and Centro Pastoral San Vicente de Paúl (CPSVP) team members recently attended Loyola University Chicago’s Climate Change Conference. While on campus, we toured the University’s facilities and saw firsthand how Loyola is putting its commitment to the environment into practice. We also met with Dr. Nancy Tuchman (Founding Dean) and Aaron Durnbaugh (Director of Sustainability) for the School of Environmental Sustainability to learn how the institution achieved carbon neutrality and explore collaborative opportunities.
CPSVP’s IEI Representative Rosario Valdivieso came away from the Loyola knowledge exchange with new ideas for conserving the Santa Julia wetlands near the Center, which are home to a great diversity of migratory birds and are a vital part of the ecosystem in Piura, Peru. Executive Director of Mission John Shively was introduced to new resources like the free online learning course in integral ecology developed at Loyola called Healing Earth, and extended an invitation for Dr. Tuchman to visit the SCL campus in the future.
Holistic Supports for the Whole Community
CPSVP and nine local partners in Piura provide holistic services to children, youth, adults, and seniors in the UPIS—La Florida community.
CPSVP in Piura, Peru, serves a deeply vulnerable and resilient community facing a range of systemic challenges. Many families in Piura live in extreme poverty, with limited access to clean water, consistent electricity, healthcare, and education. Unemployment is high, and many residents work in informal or seasonal jobs with little security.
The region also faces recurring climate-related hardships, including floods and droughts, which further strain resources and infrastructure. In 2023, Hurricane Yacu caused severe flooding near the Center. Among the hardest-hit areas was Urbanización Popular de Interés Social (UPIS)—La Florida, home to more than 800 people. Many of the 130 homes in UPIS—La Florida were flooded with up to one meter of water, leaving residents without basic services.
Through the Integral Ecology Initiative, CPSVP is addressing these interconnected social, economic, and environmental challenges with a holistic approach that empowers La Florida residents to improve their own lives. And collaboration is the key.
Just this month, the Center launched a Campaña de Ayuda Social (Social Aid Campaign) for UPIS—La Florida in partnership with the Lions Club, National University of Piura, the Archdiocese of Piura, and several local nonprofits and businesses. On June 13 and 14, the partners hosted a community event that provided dental hygiene, psychological counseling for children and adults, vision care, legal counseling, clean drinking water, and even free haircuts to more than 200 UPIS—La Florida community members. Attendees also participated in the Ecotrueque program, which encourages recycling and environmental responsibility through the exchange of recyclable materials for eco-friendly products.
ACT WITH US FOR PEOPLE AND THE PLANET
Join integral ecology efforts like our recycling and TerraCycling programs to make every day World Environment Day. Read the JPIC’s latest blog post for more great ideas for simple ways you can do your part to m
