USM Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Initiative

As I considered issues I truly wanted to focus on in the time I have remaining as chancellor, the importance of environmental stewardship became an obvious choice. Not only is this an issue of particular importance to Maryland, home to the Chesapeake Bay, it also is an arena in which the University System of Maryland (USM) is positioned to be a key leader.

USM is uniquely suited to help our state, our region, our nation, and our world come to terms with the impact of global climate change and related environmental concerns. When you consider our educational impact, research programs, community outreach, and commitment to "best practices," I can think of no entity in our state better positioned to lead on the vital and complex issues of climate change. 

My goal is for USM to bring its resources to bear in three critical areas:

• Practices
• Programs
• Policies

PRACTICES

It is important that USM institutions make every effort to employ environmentally friendly practices on our campuses. Building upon specific efforts already under way, I envision a broad system-wide strategy for campus sustainability and energy efficiency, including guidelines for new facility design and renovation.
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USM Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change Initiative

• Practices
• Programs
• Policies

• Presentations
• Climate Change Definitions
• Facilities Master Planning
• Statewide Sustainability Efforts
• ACUPCC National Benchmarking
• Useful Links and References

USM Campus Best Practices

• University of Maryland Eastern Shore Carves Out 20 Acres of Arid Land for 2.1 MW Solar Farm

We also have an obligation to use our educational and research capabilities to advance environmental understanding and action. At USM institutions, you will find undergraduate and graduate programs focused on environmental issues as well as cutting-edge environmental research, led by the University of Maryland Center of Environmental Science. There are also several other USM centers addressing climate change, many boasting key federal partners such as NASA, NOAA, and EPA. 
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POLICIES

Beyond the impact we have on our campuses, in our classroom, and at our research facilities, USM institutions are contributing their expertise to the state of Maryland as it develops new environmental policies. As the need for public policy actions concerning the environment grow, USM will have increased opportunity to help the state and the nation if we prepare now.  
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I would like to hear from you.  What is your opinion on the areas and focus I have outlined for this system-wide initiative?  What do you think we can do together to advance this area of mutual concern? Please send your ideas and comments regarding campus sustainability to green@usmd.edu

As I consider the remainder of my tenure as chancellor, I find such an effort to be worthwhile and imperative.  

William E. ("Brit") Kirwan, Chancellor

University System of Maryland

Based on remarks given by Chancellor Kirwan at the Seminar on Sustainability, held at Frostburg State University on September 15, 2007.

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