Tuesday, Nov 13, 2018
University received its first New Jersey Smart Workplace Award in October
by Megan Lupo
Alongside 26 businesses in Mercer and Ocean counties, Rider University received its first New Jersey Smart Workplaces Award by the Greater Mercer Transportation Management Association during its annual meeting and luncheon at Hyatt Regency Princeton on Oct. 26.
The award recognizes those entities that offer its employees, and advocate for, commuter benefits, “therefore reducing congestion and improving air quality,” according to the association.
Awards were distributed in four categories, from bronze to silver to gold to platinum. Rider received the top distinction, platinum.
Rider's five electric vehicle (EV) chargers helped propel the University to the top award. Installed in 2017, the chargers are available for free for current students, faculty and staff.
"They were installed in hopes that over time we can replace gas and diesel vehicles with more sustainable vehicles, as well as to incentivize students who are considering getting an EV," says Riders sustainability manager, Melissa Greenberg.
Other elements that contributed to Rider receiving the award were the availability of bike racks around campus, parking spaces designated for low-emitting vehicles, the option for some faculty and staff to telecommute and the free campus shuttle.
Rider has long been recognized for its sustainability efforts. Earlier this month, The Princeton Review selected Rider as one of the 399 most environmentally responsible colleges in the nation and included the University in its "green guide," for the 9th straight year. Rider also received a mark of distinction from Second Nature, an organization dedicated to mobilizing higher education institutions to achieve bold initiatives aimed at creating a sustainable society. Rider has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and has reached 25 percent of its overall goal since the Carbon Neutrality Plan was adopted in 2010.
Greater Mercer TMA is a nonprofit, public-private partnership dedicated to promoting and providing transportation choices that are designed to reduce congestion, improve mobility, increase safety and further sustainability in Mercer and Ocean counties. Established in 1984, the association consists of large and small employers, local governments, authorities and state agencies that share a commitment to providing transportation choices that are good for commuters, business and the environment.