University fails environment

Several recent IDS articles highlight a media trend by discussing problems caused by climate change and potential remedies, instead of debating the phenomenon’s existence. This development represents a change that has taken place in the minds of Indiana undergraduates.\nFewer students need to be convinced of climate change’s impact, and most wonder “How can I become part of the solution?” The administration echoed this sentiment last spring, establishing the IU Sustainability Taskforce, but has failed to take the next step. The American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment is a promise to achieve long-term climate neutrality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the interim and publicly report progress toward these ends. It has been signed by 483 college and university presidents or chancellors. IU President Michael McRobbie is not among them.\nIndiana’s reputation as a leader in social movements makes his abstention conspicuous. In 1867, Indiana became one of the first universities to admit women; in 1940, the University established the Kinsey Institute; today, Indiana continues to lead with a nationally ranked School of Public and Environmental Affairs. There is no reason to break from this trend when it comes to protecting the environment.\nFactors like Indiana’s size should not be considered obstacles to commitment. Large schools, including the University of Washington, Arizona State University and the state school systems of both California and South Carolina have signed the agreement. Neither should geography be cited in avoiding commitment. Indeed, the University’s proximity to southern Indiana’s coal mines and the quagmire in the state’s industrial northwestern region make Indiana a prime candidate to lead by endorsing the Climate Commitment. Five Indiana institutions have already done so, and Minnesota became the first Big Ten school to sign it.\nIt is shameful that while many students want to be part of the solution, IU’s administration continues to ignore the growing trend among colleges and universities of commitment to environmental ideals. As students, we must continue to do our part, while reminding the administration of Indiana’s leadership reputation and obligation to the community it calls home.