President's Statement on Sustainability

"George Mason University combines its international diversity--our students come from over 130 countries-- with an entrepreneurial spirit that results in understanding that our responsibility to global education goes far beyond the four walls of a classroom or the boundaries of a campus. This unique educational strength led me to sign the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org). This important commitment serves to underscore the importance of our actions in light of growing concern about the impact of climate change and other unsustainable activities. With this commitment, we are taking the next steps on a journey into long-term sustainability for the university.

Why pursue sustainability as an institution of higher education? First, as one of the largest organizations in Northern Virginia, we have a responsibility to promote our own sustainable practices for the benefit of our university, surrounding communities, the region, the country and the world. Second, as a premier higher education institution, we have the ability to arm future world leaders with the knowledge and values to create a more stable, equitable, and healthy future for all species. Finally, with our extensive research leadership in the areas of climate dynamics, civil engineering, ecology, geology, and other earth and social sciences, we can bring together the best scholars and researchers to share their expertise and advance research that addresses complex problems. Through the encouragement of scientific debate and discussion, Mason will provide an energizing, dynamic and balanced forum for problem-solving with a focus on mutual understanding and respect. We are uniquely suited to address these problems, locally and globally.

In pursuit of climate neutrality and organizational sustainability, Mason has appointed a Sustainability Coordinator who is responsible for assisting the university with defining and meeting its climate commitment and sustainability goals. Through a cross-functional Sustainability Council and Working Groups, we will work with all university constituents - students, faculty, and staff - and community members to promote and enable actions to reduce our impact on our local and global communities and ecosystems.

At Mason, we are committed to meeting the challenge of local and global stewardship. We see a sustainable and fruitful future for Mason as a climate-neutral and low-ecological-impact organization, but the entire community must commit. I encourage you to assist us with these important goals by working within your own spheres of influence to continue to offer innovation and entrepreneurship in the spirit of George Mason University."



Link to the Sustainability Homepage