Sustainability program gears up for expansion

· 3 min read

Sustainability program gears up for expansion

Volunteers sought for new Commission on Environment, Sustainability and Resilience
Chancellor Ronnie Green discusses his vision for the future in the State of the University address on Jan. 15. In the speech, Green called for an expanded sustainability presence on campus. A new commission has been created to pursue that goal.
Craig Chandler | University Communication
Chancellor Ronnie Green discusses his vision for the future in the State of the University address on Jan. 15. In the speech, Green called for an expanded sustainability presence on campus. A new commission has been created to pursue that goal.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is ramping up its commitment to sustainability and the environment.

In answer to a directive from Chancellor Ronnie Green’s Jan. 15 State of the University address, a Chancellor’s Commission on Environment, Sustainability and Resilience has been formed. The group — which will include seven action teams — is charged with providing strategic recommendations related to campus sustainability to university leadership.

“As we pause to honor the 150th anniversary of this great land-grant institution, we must also look toward the direction Nebraska will take in the future,” Green said. “Let’s imagine a future with a culture that builds a more sustainable and resilient community for all citizens. Each of us, serving as stewards of this university and its resource for future generations of Huskers.

“To protect that future, an enhanced sustainability program is necessary today.”

Ultimately, the commission will develop and maintain an environment, sustainability and resilience master plan for the university. The group will outline campus goals, outcomes, timelines, responsibilities and metrics, while working to implement the approved master plans.

Shrestha

The commission will include nine members, including Prabhakar “Prabs” Shrestha, sustainability coordinator for the university. Other members will be a faculty member appointed by the chancellor (currently Dave Gosselin, director of environmental studies) and the leaders of seven action teams.

Each action team will have five to eight members, including at least one student. Areas of focus for the teams are: teaching and learning; health and wellness; research and innovation; land resources and ecosystems; campus operations; campus facilities; and community engagement.

The commission and action teams will meet as needed. Applications to join the commission action teams are being accepted through March 15. No experience is needed to participate.

“We are seeking people who are passionate about sustainability, the environment and university,” said Shrestha. “This is an opportunity to be part of the solution, helping move the university forward and be a champion for future Huskers.”

Complete details about the commission, application and nomination forms, and selection deadlines are available online.

For more information, contact Shrestha at prabs@unl.edu or 402-472-1126.

Go Green for Big Red Volunteers collect recycling bags during a Husker football game. The recycling initiative, which focuses on reducing trash created via football game tailgates, is among successes for the university's sustainability programs.

Recent News