McRobbie approves sustainability proposals

IU will announce today President Michael McRobbie has approved new proposals designed to increase sustainability, save money and allow greater cooperation between administration, academics and campus utilities.

The approval gives a green light for the IU Task Force on Campus Sustainability to work with the president and the provost, said Michael Hamburger, geology professor and co-chair of the Task Force on Campus Sustainability. This approval comes after the task force released a report in January outlining a strategy for increased sustainability.

Hamburger said he hopes the proposals pave the way for a long-term plan to improve campus sustainability.

The proposals include initiatives such as increased awareness of recycling, more courses and research on green policies and creating a bicycle-pedestrian transportation policy, according to a press release. 

The proposals could mean a new office and position, the director of campus sustainability, who would report to the provost and chief administrative officer. It also could mean more student involvement and decreased energy costs.

However, it’s an interim plan to be played out throughout the next year, Hamburger said.

“It’s to be determined how this will work out,“ he said. 

Hamburger said this was a culmination of work throughout a year and a half from more than 100 faculty, staff and students who provided recommendations. He hopes this will allow more resources to be used toward sustainability projects.

IU Spokesman Larry MacIntyre said McRobbie didn’t sign this because sustainability is “in style,” but because he’s open to recommendations. MacIntyre said McRobbie is open to things that will save money and protect the environment.

Hamburger said he hopes the approval of the proposals will allow a greater connection between education and physical components, such as power plants and utilities.
The recommendations could partially be paid for through the Higher Education Sustainability Act, private donors and foundations, Hamburger said.

He said student involvement was already great – with students volunteering and conducting several projects related to sustainability. But the proposals will provide greater opportunities to take classes and volunteer, Hamburger said.

“Students have been involved right on down the line,” MacIntyre said.