![Carbon neutrality at AU = X trees](/about/sustainability/images/AU_Carbon-Neutrality_graphics4_3.png)
Contact Us
Office of Sustainability
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8163
United States
American University is Carbon Neutral
Through our innovative approach to reducing emissions, using green power, and purchasing strategic carbon offsets, American University achieved carbon neutrality two years ahead of schedule.
Reduce Our Use
Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions wasÌýthe most important step AU tookÌýto achieve carbon neutrality. To maintain neutrality, AU has programs to engage the whole community in practicing sustainable habits.
![Zero Waste Zero Waste](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Zero-Waste.png)
![Community Engagement Community Engagement](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Community-Engagement.png)
![Transportation Transportation](/about/sustainability/images/cn_icons-Transportation.png)
![Water Conservation Water Conservation](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Water-Conservation.png)
![Energy Saving Programs Energy Saving Programs](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Energy-Savings-Programs.png)
![Green Buildings Green Buildings](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Green-Buildings.png)
Use Renewable Energy
Using 100% emissions-free electricity drives down AU's carbon footprint and contributes to sustainable practices.
![On-site and Off-site Solar On-site and Off-site Solar](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-on-site-and-off-site-solar.png)
![Renewable energy credits Renewable energy credits](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-renewable-energy-credits.png)
Offset the Rest
Some sources of GHG emissions cannotÌýbe completely eliminated with our current technology. Strategic offset initiatives allow AU to balanceÌýtheÌýGHG emissions our community produces from sources like air travel and commuting.
![Efficient Trucking Efficient Trucking](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Efficient-Trucking.png)
![Tree Planting Tree Planting](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-tree-planting.png)
![Investment in Cookstoves in Kenya Investment in Cookstoves in Kenya](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-Cookstoves.png)
![Landfill Gas Landfill Gas](/about/sustainability/images/CN_icons-landfill-gas.png)