Online and connected: Creating a Sustainable Campus using Apps – (part 2)

Organizations around the world, from business to NGOs to individuals, are creating apps for smart phones. These mobile apps enable people to connect to networks, get access to real time data, receive feedback and understand information in a visual way.

Although these apps are not focused specifically on university campuses, they are easily used in green campus initiatives. In the first part of this series we looked at apps that help reduce paper, water, energy and waste. Here we look at apps dedicated to procurement, motivation, travel and sustainable cities. To finish off, next week we’ll discuss some thoughts on what business schools can do to meet these challenges.

Motivation

Go Green provides one tip a day on how to be more green. Green Me lists up to five ways you can be more environmentally friendly daily. iGrowit gives information on what vegetables are good to plant right now and gives tips on how to grow your own garden.  Everybody Walk App helps individuals develop personalized walking plans, connect with walking communities and learn the latest fitness trends.

Procurement

National Green Pages in the US is a listing of thousands of businesses that have made commitments to sustainable principles. Similar apps are available in a range of other countries and communities. GoodGuide provides health, environmental and social performance ratings for a range of consumer products.  The Seafood Watch app provides recommendations for ocean-friendly seafood at your favorite restaurants and stores. Locvaore gives in season, local food options and provides links to farmer’s markets.

Travel

FleetMatics lets you track your company vehicles (cars, trucks etc.) to help control fuel costs and maximize the efficient use of your vehicles. GreenMeter computes your vehicle’s power and fuel use, and evaluates your driving to increase efficiency. Green Travel Choice allows you to see the greenhouse gas emissions that are generated by your journeys, using nine typical modes of transport, such as planes, subways and cars of various sizes. GreenGlobe App search for sustainable resorts, hotels, conference centers, attractions, tour experiences and TripSketch Green Book provides options for eco-friendly restaurants around the world. Bike Pooling is looking to make cities more bike friendly by forming “car pools” for bikers by connecting you with others who are making a similar bike commute each morning. If you have an extra room you are willing to rent to students or travellers you can post it on airbnb which will connect you with individuals looking for a room.

Sustainable Cities

Pollution provides information about local pollution sources. AirNow gives real time air quality information for wherever you are including air quality forecasts for both ozone and fine particle pollution. Ecological Urbanism provides a range of examples from around the world of urban sustainability projects.

What apps do you use in your business school? Have you developed any apps to help drive your sustainability efforts? Share your experiences in the discussion board.