FutureVU, Vanderbilt University

Vanderbilt University’s sustainability framework will inform all future developments and plans on campus. Atelier Ten worked with key stakeholders to develop a sustainability framework for Vanderbilt University that establishes actionable strategies to develop a resilient campus that achieves carbon neutrality, reduces potable water consumption by 50% and uses 100% renewable energy by 2050.

In response to the increased frequency of large storm events in recent years, stormwater management was one of Vanderbilt’s top priorities in the development of the sustainability framework. Atelier Ten’s sustainable stormwater approach for the campus that focuses on using landscape practices to manage rainwater and creates Low-Impact Developments, which use permeable surfaces instead of hardscape surfaces to reduce water runoff. The framework includes a site plan that designates half the campus as green space, which will convert currently impervious surfaces to more permeable materials.

Atelier Ten also developed a transportation plan that creates a pedestrian-friendly campus, establishes monetary incentives for non-driving commuters, provides bike services on campus, and integrates the campus into region transit system. Through a combination of these efforts, the university will target a 30% reduction in both single occupancy vehicle commutes and greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a 50% GHG reduction by 2050.