History
Through its teaching and research endeavors, as well as the operations of its overall enterprise, the University of Miami is committed to the safeguarding of the environment. Innovative programs in schools and colleges, interdisciplinary centers and institutes, and events and activities throughout the University address issues involving a wide spectrum of environmental concerns.
In 2005, the University launched Green U, under the direction of Alan J Fish (The Vice President of Business Services at the time) in order to officially categorize and direct the numerous sustainability efforts of the University. Green U’s first aim was to make UM: “a community leader in the acquisition of environmentally responsible products and the practice of ecologically sound maintenance and operations procedures.”
In 2007, President Donna E. Shalala signed the 2nd Nature - American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment. This historical event sent a strong and unequivocal message about University of Miami’s dedication to sustainability. As part of this commitment, a Climate Action Plan was designed in 2009 (download here). The University of Miami, since then, has taken steps towards carbon neutrality and has engaged in the path of Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction.
The American College and University Presidents' Climate Commitment is a project developed by the national organization 2nd Nature in partnership with the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), from which the University of Miami is an active member. The commitment provides a framework and support for America’s colleges and universities to become Carbon neutral.
Following the 2nd Nature Presidents Climate Commitment, the University of Miami has been initiating actions to reduce greenhouse gases:
- We established a policy that all new campus constructions need to be built to the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED Silver standard or above.
- We adopted an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy requiring ENERGY STAR certified products in all areas for which such ratings exist.
- We have been encouraging the use of and provide access to public transportation and alternative mobility for all faculty, staff, students and visitors at our institution.
- We launched a waste minimization campaign that include the 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
