Salem State College has received a state Leading by Example environmental award for the school’s efforts to reduce energy and water use and promote recycling and renewable energy.
Recent projects included planting native beds that use less water, creating a long-term stewardship plan to protect 9 acres of tidal marsh owned by the college, and purchasing 3.5 million kilowatt-hours per year of renewable energy certificates to help offset carbon emissions, according to a release from the school.
The college also renovated its business school building and temporary library to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design requirements and installed solar panels on a residence hall, said Jim Glynn, a spokesman for Salem State College.
A new dormitory currently under construction is also expected to be LEED-certified, Glynn said.
Salem State was one of seven colleges, state agencies, and municipalities to receive a Leading by Example award this year.
The city of Somerville was the only other recipient in the region.
Brian Benson 
