A Sustainable Future

Colleges and universities have consistently been the world leaders in sustainable design and green construction. “Green” university building projects could simultaneously create millions of green-collar jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and advance proven opportunities to deliver greener, more energy efficient buildings.

President Obama has issued a recent commitment to make the United States a global leader in green, energy-efficient government facilities, calling for an overhaul of 75% of federal buildings in an effort to save $2 billion through energy efficiency alone.

Our universities have the proven track record to fulfill this commitment on their campuses, with more than 600 university Presidents signing the American College and University President’s Climate Commitment. This is a powerful reminder that universities can lead the way to create new buildings and campuses that embody our shared environmental and economic aspirations.

Take Action Now

As the Carnegie Foundation’s Higher Education Investment Act – An Open Letter to President-Elect Obama and His Administration has stated:

“A commitment of 5 percent of the economic stimulus package—in the range of $40 to $45 billion—toward higher education facilities will provide the stimulus that will propel the nation forward in resolving its current economic crisis and lay the ground-work for international economic competitiveness and the well-being of American families into the future.”

The time to act is now. Take Action Now