The sustainability movement at DePauw University is a topic that has gained a lot of publicity in the past few years. It began with the Climate Action Plan in 2008 and has been slowly but steadily gaining momentum since then.
We have so many creative ideas and projects like the Campus Farm, community bikes and recycling. We have all the tools needed to become a more sustainable campus. We have the support of the faculty. We have a strong and supportive network of student organizations such as Green Greeks, Eco Reps and Environmental Club. Most importantly, we have a signed pledge from President Brian W. Casey stating that DePauw has a responsibility to "model ways to minimize global warming emissions."
We have committed - all that remains is to put words into action. President Casey signed the petition with the belief and the hope that students would be motivated to act and reach the goal of carbon neutrality. The petition was not intended to be thrown around and publicized to brag that DePauw is an "environmentally concerned" university. Our Climate Action Plan indeed symbolizes how we would like to be perceived, but it is also an explicit call to action.
We must take the tools we have as a student body and encourage each other to lead sustainable lifestyles. It is not easy - but it never should be. Reaching carbon neutrality demands living with intention: turning the lights off after you leave a room, carrying a mug to class (even if it is the dorky one your mother gave you as a graduation present 2 years ago) or attending the offered thirty-minute lectures that discuss climate change and sustainability efforts around the nation.
One of the newest improvements to the Sustainability movement on campus is the involvement of greek life. Each house is encouraged to elect members of their fraternity or sorority to be Environmental representatives, or "Green Greeks".
For the first time, the Order of Omega is featuring a "Green Chapter of the Year" award as a way to encourage the importance of sustainable lifestyles within greek houses on campus. The award application is divided into six categories: Reduce & Reuse, Recycling, Energy Efficiency, Water Efficiency, Education and Purchasing. The application is due March 10th and the participation of each greek house is encouraged.
Not only is it interesting to see where energy is being allocated, it is also interesting to see the small changes a house can make to improve their ecological footprint. For the first time, students can be involved.
The Sustainability movement on campus is termed a "movement" for a reason. It is a force that requires a transcending energy full of enthusiasm and motion. The goal of reaching carbon neutrality will not be reached by 2040 without the involvement of a dedicated and motivated student and faculty body.
It is time to implement President Casey's call to action in our everyday lives and within our houses. Whether you are part of the greek community, live in a residence hall or live in alternative housing, utilize the resources you have been given to make your living space a sustainable place.
-White is a sophomore environmental-geoscience major from Steamboat Springs, Colo.