ODU RECOGNIZED BY THE ELIZABETH RIVER PROJECT

Old Dominion University has been elevated to "model" level in the Elizabeth River Project's River Stars Program. Three-star model-level honors are reached when a River Star has made exemplary strides in pollution prevention or wildlife habitat enhancement.

ODU's recent environmentally conscious efforts include recycling more than 510,000 pounds of materials during a 12-month period; using a chemical recycler instead of having chemicals sent to a landfill; reducing storm-water contamination; and conserving water and energy usage on campus. In addition, ODU established community outreach initiatives including its annual Community Care Day, Earth Day 2007 and an environmental awareness educational campaign for local elementary school students.

The university will be formally recognized during a luncheon at the Founders Inn on Thursday, Jan. 17. For more information about the Elizabeth River Project and efforts to restore and preserve the river's ecosystem, visit www.elizabethriver.org.