Does Environmentalism "Fit Squarely" with Higher Ed's Mission?

Ashley Thorne

What do you think? 

In the recently released annual report for the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), Michael Crow, chair of the ACUPCC steering committee and president of Arizona State University, wrote:

...we recognize our responsibility to minimize our own contributions to global warming and to accelerate education and research to make the transition to a low-carbon, more vibrant and sustainable economy. We believe that taking a leadership role in this effort fits squarely into the educational, research and public service missions of higher education.

Dear readers, do you agree? Does environmental action and education fit “squarely into the educational, research and public service missions of higher education”? How do you support your answer? What do you understand to be higher education’s mission? 

We’re interested to know your opinion on this, and hope to see a variety of viewpoints. You may submit your answer as a comment on this article.

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