Tuesday morning at the Chancellor’s formal office, The University of Mississippi joined a number of other schools in the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment.
This Earth Day, Chancellor Dan Jones stated that it is a “privilege” to be a part of a commitment promising, along with other universities in the country, to commit to a sustainable environment.
“We are pleased to be among those who make this commitment,” Jones said. “It doesn’t mean we are perfect stewards, it means that we are on the pathway to being better.”
The American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment promotes awareness of the scale and speed of global warming. It also recognizes the scientific consensus that global warming is real, and that it is primarily caused by humans.
The Climate Commitment states that colleges and universities must implement ways to minimize global warming emissions.
“More than ever, universities must take leadership roles to address the grand challenges of the twenty-first century, and climate change is paramount amongst these.” said Michael M. Crow, president of Arizona State University.
“The goal is to have a neutral effect on our environment,” Jones said. “In modern society, unconsciously we have negative effects on the environment.”
Jones titled this a “simple commitment, taking a step towards being better, being the best we can.”
Jones said the beauty of the campus should serve as “inspiring” to act better towards the environment. However, Jones gave his highest praise to the students, “encouraging, congealing, pressuring us to be a stronger healthier university.”
Ann Fisher-Wirth, English professor and director of environmental studies, said she is also proud.
“I am grateful for the students increasing activity, outspokenness, and mindfulness,” Fisher-Wirth said.
Anne McCauley, assistant director of the Office of Sustainability, is supportive of all the efforts. The Office of Sustainability works with individuals, students and departments across campus.
“It really is becoming a campus-wide effort, and we will continue to support that broad partnership” McCauley said.
— Julie Laberge
jklaberg@go.olemiss.edu
