The University of Michigan shows immense growth and engagement in sustainability education, research and operations, according to a new report designed to track and measure progress.
The University of Michigan has launched an online certification program in an effort to promote sustainable behaviors and culture among its community. Open to all faculty, staff and students, the Planet Blue Ambassador program is part of President Mary Sue Coleman's sustainability initiative known as Planet Blue.
Four substantial, student-led sustainability projects are gaining momentum on campus, thanks to financial support from the new Planet Blue Student Innovation Fund. Three of the four, focused on reusable takeout food containers, a sustainable food kiosk and a U-M campus farm, were developed by students at SNRE. Announced by President Mary Sue Coleman last fall as part of her larger campus sustainability address, the Planet Blue Student Innovation Fund offers grants of up to $50,000 annually for projects that reduce the university's environmental footprint and/or promote a culture of sustainability on campus.
Jan. 18, 2011
Planet Blue conducted an open house Tuesday, Jan. 18, in the Dana Building's Ford Commons. The event included displays and information on energy conservation, recycling opportunities and other sustainability oriented efforts across the University of Michigan campus.
T-shirt giveaways took place for students and staff who signed up to be Planet Blue citizens, and water bottles were distributed to those who completed the Planet Blue Quiz/Tip card. A lunch was also offered as were tours of various mechanical rooms within the building.
The University has been a leader in energy conservation and environmental stewardship for decades, long before "campus sustainability" became a buzzword. U-M has taken that commitment a step further with the launch of its first campuswide sustainability Web site, www.sustainable.umich.edu.