Chico State University President Gayle Hutchinson has signed an open letter with a number of other higher education leaders, urging President-elect Donald Trump and the incoming Congress to support climate action.
Specifically, the letter urges the incoming administration and Congress to support U.S. participation in climate research, investment in the “low carbon economy” and science-based targets outlined in the Paris climate agreement, according to a university press release. It was also signed by CSU Chancellor Timothy White and five other CSU presidents,
The letter emphasizes the importance of aggressive climate action, the opportunity to address the challenges of climate change with the transition of federal leadership and the willingness of higher education leaders to assist the incoming administration.
“As a campus, Chico State encourages the new federal administration to take a responsible and ethical approach to climate change,” Hutchinson said in a university press release. “We stand ready to support and assist in any way to meet global challenges.”
Nonprofit Second Nature and several higher education institutions organized the open letter, and it can be found in its entirety on the Second Nature website.
The letter states, “The upcoming transition of federal leadership presents a unique opportunity to address head-on the challenges of climate change by accelerating the new energy economy and creating strong, resilient communities. We are committed to developing and deploying innovative climate solutions that provide a prosperous future for all Americans.”
Chico State has long emphasized sustainability and former President Paul Zingg was a founding signatory of the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment.
The university plans to be climate neutral by 2030.
“Chico State takes seriously its role as a leader in sustainable practices,” Hutchinson said. “Sustainable development and practice are infused throughout our curriculum, our campus programs and policies.”
Source: Chico Enterprise-Record