There are a lot of reasons to work towards carbon neutrality and a more sustainable world.

Climate Change

Anthropogenic (human driven) climate change causes a variety of global issues. In southeast Michigan, we’re already seeing an increase in extreme weather events, the spread of vector-borne diseases, as well as a shift in plant and animal habitat ranges. Globally, visible signs of climate change include melting glaciers, more frequent and intense wildfires, sea level rise, and a growing number of climate refugees. Our efforts to reduce emissions are a part of a vital global effort to preserve the Earth’s life-support systems, which all people and nature depend upon.

Environmental Justice

Low-income and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities are disproportionately affected by climate change and other environmental problems. They spend a larger portion of their income on energy bills and have reduced access to healthy foods, clean air, and safe drinking water. If you'd like to learn more about environmental justice, the U-M Center for Sustainable Systems has created an Environmental Justice Fact Sheet.

Well-Being

Sustainable behaviors such as biking and walking around campus or eating more plant-based proteins often benefit our individual health and well-being. In addition, working on collaborative sustainability projects builds community and a sense of belonging.

Education

As an educational institution, U-M has a duty to prepare our students with the life skills and knowledge necessary to live sustainably and contribute towards sustainable solutions in their future careers.