UNM is the first campus in New Mexico to become a member of the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, Tyler Brandenburg said in an email from the association. This happens at the same time UNM is initiating a minor in sustainability studies and UNM’s provost is calling for the development of a sustainability policy.
“I think 2006 was the year that everyone ‘got it.’ The world needs us to enlist personally and professionally in the emerging green ecoeconomy that benefits all of us,” said Bruce Milne, sustainability studies director. “There are incredible opportunities to engage the creative talents of the students, faculty and staff with the community, business and policy makers.
"I’m grateful that UNM has joined AASHE in a mutually beneficial relationship that combines AASHE’s resources with the contributions UNM is making to the state and nation through our own examples.”
Along with this interest, UNM Provost Reed Dasenbrock recently launched a Sustain ability Taskforce, chaired by Physical Plant Director Mary Vosevich, to develop a sustainability policy that will lead to goals, strategies and finally projects aimed at reducing the environmental impact of UNM. Milne is heading the policy subcommittee.
“The task force is comprised of individuals from throughout the campus, many of whom are experts in the field of sustainability,” Vosevich said. “Faculty, students and staff have willingly come to the table to discuss strategies of sustainability for UNM. Being a member of AASHE will keep us linked to cutting edge sustainable initiatives that may translate well to UNM.
"I am hopeful that not only New Mexicans, but people around the country will look to the University of New Mexico as a leading example of how to embrace sustainable practices.”
Media Contact: Sabra Basler, (505) 277-7590; e-mail: sbasler@unm.edu
Posted by scarr at March 15, 2007 11:12 AM