Sustaining sustainability

Abby Schwimmer’s Oct. 29 column, “Eco education” discussed the 2008 Campus Sustainability Report Card, an assessment of the sustainability practices among the 200 colleges and universities with the largest endowments. As Ms. Schwimmer states, Indiana University has made much progress since last year’s dismal showing, improving from a D+ to a C. These improvements are wonderful to see, and President McRobbie is in a perfect position to maintain this momentum. \nContinued efforts in favor of greening buildings, reducing emissions, educating students about conservation and promotion of environmental student groups would allow Indiana University to remain on the cutting edge of the environmental movement. With these priorities, Indiana University could become a leader not just among other colleges and universities but also within the entire Midwest. Environmentalism is not a fad; it is a paradigm shift. President McRobbie must decide whether IU will continue to be a burgeoning, shining example of forward-thinking social action, or if it must be dragged into the future kicking and screaming at the very back of the herd.\nBradley Vine \nIU senior