Campus Climate Action Plan
January 2010
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The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMA) recognizes that global climate change and other environmental challenges have become defining issues of our time. UMA continuously pursues research and education with a goal of providing a sustainable and climate neutral environment. We provide our students with groundbreaking courses and educational opportunities, our faculty with state-of-the-art research and development facilities and funding, and continually strive to reach out to other campuses and communities to develop collaborative solutions to sustainability issues. By discussing and examining the newest technologies, the latest environmental controversies, and potential solutions to the world's environmental issues we are determined to achieve the goals set out in the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). In the classroom, through participation in experiential learning opportunities, and with an environmentally conscience staff, UMA actively pursues the tenants set forth in this Climate Action Plan (CAP).
The UMA Climate Action Plan establishes a timeline and specific strategies to become climate neutral by 2050. In order to develop a comprehensive plan, the UMA Environmental Performance Advisory Committee (EPAC) created eight subcommittees to investigate and report on 1) campus emissions; 2) energy conservation; 3) green building; 4) transportation; 5) renewable energy; 6) food; 7) sequestration and offsets; and 8) education, outreach, and research. Each subcommittee analyzed existing programs and recommended new strategies to meet the ACUPCC goals on the UMA campus. Complicated issues require exhaustive research, coordination and dissemination of the research findings, and ultimately, a document that integrates information and recommendations into action. The UMA CAP provides such a plan around these eight areas of action.
Letter from Chancellor Holub - January 14, 2010 [PDF - 200KB]
The Chancellor's letter is also included on page 3 of the Climate Action Plan.
