The recently released 2013 Sustainability Initiatives Revolving Fund (SIRF) annual report chronicles $5.6 million in investments that support Arizona State University.

The investments included seven energy conservation projects and six student and campus-oriented projects at ASU. From lighting retrofits, to specialized recycling bins, to an urban garden at the Downtown Phoenix campus, SIRF funds thrive in some surprising places.

In addition to project details and descriptions of all SIRF projects financed in 2013, the report includes three Q-and-A interviews with ASU SIRF fund recipients who have put their sustainability ideas into action.

Any ASU student, faculty or staff member can apply for SIRF support for projects that address the four overarching goals of the ASU Strategic Plan for Sustainability Practices and Operations:

• carbon neutrality

• zero solid/water waste

• active engagement

• principled practice

The SIRF committee consists of an eight-member team of ASU senior administrators. The group meets regularly to review and approve project proposals that have a direct impact on expanding campus sustainability, energy conservation and renewable-resource development. For more information about the SIRF funding structure and how to apply, visit theSIRF website.

Understand more about how ASU is employing sustainable practices by viewing the 2013 SIRF annual report on the SIRF website.

Contact Lisa Frace, SIRF committee chairperson and ASU associate vice president of planning and budget, with additional SIRF questions byemail, or call 480-965-5747.