As part of the competition, the public is welcomed to view videos produced by each finalist highlighting sustainability efforts and to vote for the candidate they find most sustainable. Voting is open now through April 15, and viewers can vote once per day at the Planet Forward website by clicking here.
Later this spring, the Second Nature Board of Directors will choose the award winners.
Western has a strong history of sustainability efforts, dating back to 1971 with the establishment of Michigan's first environmental studies program. In 1980, WMU launched a quasi-green revolving fund—the first in the nation—that is used to fund energy-saving projects. Energy savings from those efforts have been captured and reinvested in additional energy-saving initiatives over the years. Solar power, electric vehicles, storm water management, and interdisciplinary efforts to build sustainability into curricula and research are just a few examples of sustainability efforts at WMU.
In 2010, WMU students voted to become the first student body in Michigan to add a fee that supports campus sustainability efforts and also funds student research. The Office for Sustainability was established to guide and assist the Western Michigan University community in fulfilling and growing its sustainability commitments., to learn more, please visit wmich.edu/sustainability.
Read more at wmich.edu/news: WMU named finalist for national Climate Leadership Award