Public Safety Goes Green

In the University’s attempt to participate in the Go Green Movement, our Department of Public Safety purchased a new Ford Escape Hybrid. A hybrid vehicle is constructed to operate on two sources of power, gas and electricity. The first Explorer Hybrid was released in 2004. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this hybrid proved to be 75% more fuel-efficient. The Department is very conscience of the movement and purchased the new vehicle with hopes that it would reduce the carbon footprint of the University. “Currently, we are testing to see how much of an affect the vehicle has on the environment,” says Todd Pelazza, the director of Public Safety. “We have already noticed a decrease in the gas output and an increase in the mileage.” Fairfield University has only purchased one of these vehicles at the time, until they can determine if the results of the tests are positive. “If the reports continue to come back positive, there is definitely a possibility of the University purchasing more of these vehicles,” commented Mr. Pelazza. “Thus far we have determined that the mileage on the hybrid is far superior.” Fairfield University has many clubs and organizations that are promoting awareness of the Go Green Movement around campus. “This is only one way that the University is saying that ‘were listening,’” Pelazza said.