Sustainability
Columbia Mail is committed to incorporating sustainability practices into its daily operations. Highlighted here are ongoing initiatives undertaken by the department in conjunction with campus partners.
Operations
Columbia Mail’s primary service vehicles are greening up the department’s operations:
Chevy Tahoe Hybrid
Replacing a 2002 Ford Windstar, "Hybridgette", the new 2013 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, is engineered for efficiency, and includes a regenerative braking system and electronically variable transmission with integral electric motors, paired with Hybrid Electric Propulsion. This vehicle replacement saves 0.8 gallons per 100 miles, in addition to savings in fuel costs. Notably, the hybrid emits 71 grams of C02 less than the replaced vehicle, making it a greener option all-around.
Mercedes Sprinter
The Mercedes Sprinter features the latest green, clean diesel technology on the market. Powered by a V6 Turbo Diesel engine, the Sprinter uses a BLUE TEC system to drastically reduce emissions and boasts 18MPG. The Sprinter joins Mail’s fleet along with a Hybrid that while large in size, still maintains low fuel consumption through its regenerative system, in combination with an auto start/stop program.
Waste Reduction
Direct Mail Reduction Opportunities
Students wishing to reduce deliveries of unsolicited direct mail or to manage their direct mail solicitations can visit DMA Choice, the website of the Direct Marketing Association, which allows consumers to complete a convenient online form to reduce or eliminate commercial mailings from the majority of companies that participate in direct mail marketing.