In keeping with the theme of this year's University's Unity Project, Student Council's Environmental Sustainability Committee is debating an initiative that would channel more resources toward sustainability efforts. Green Initiative Funding Tomorrow would establish a fund "that would go toward financing student, faculty or staff projects that would promote sustainable behavior on Grounds," Committee member Thushara Gunda said. And though plans to improve energy efficiency would be well-received across Grounds, there ought to be careful discussion about potential sources of funding.
Initially the Committee considered incorporating a $5 "green fee" into University student's semester tuition costs, similar to the Student Activity Fee. This money goes toward providing students with free admission to home football games and walk-in appointments to Student Health, among other benefits. A portion of these fees also is allocated to the Student Activity Fund which forms the majority of Council's annual budget. Currently SAF budget surpluses at the end of each year roll over in the next year's budget. Gunda suggested, however, directing these surpluses toward GIFT.\nCouncil President John Nelson emphasized that this proposal still is in its preliminary stages, and Council is gauging support for such an initiative before determining the appropriate funding mechanisms. He added that Council is not considering hiding this fee among tuition costs.
Such reassurance is promising during a time when student fees ought to be limited as much as possible to maintain the University's standing as one of the nation's best valued colleges. Though a $5 "green fee" would seem insignificant compared to the expenses students already face, even small changes on the periphery are undesirable.
The Committee also is considering a voluntary opt-in method that would not obligate students to contribute to funding these projects. This system, though, likely would not generate the revenue needed to fund the University's various sustainability projects. Nevertheless, Council is taking the correct approach by not mandating the fee; if the University community determines that sustainability ought to be prioritized, then the support will come. To bring in funds and build publicity, Council should consider soliciting class campaigns and alumni donations.
Though Council ought to be commended for its efforts to provide more financial support to green initiatives, determining the best source of funding is integral to the survival of GIFT. The initiative's enduring success will require that students genuinely buy into the idea of sustainability as a goal worth contributing toward.
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