UAlbany Signs United Nations Sustainability Declaration

Annual Earth & Wellness Day Also Features Clothing Exchange, Farmer’s Market

UAlbany students help clean up campus as part of the University's sustainability efforts.

ALBANY, N.Y. (April 19, 2012) - The University at Albany is strengthened its commitment as one of the world leaders in environmental sustainability today by signing the United Nations Sustainability Declaration at its annual Earth & Wellness Day. The declaration denotes UAlbany’s continued pledge to teach sustainable concepts, research environmental development issues, and green the campus.

“Universities play a significant role in global environmental efforts,” said UAlbany President George M. Philip. “This declaration reaffirms the University’s international commitment to a more sustainable society.”

In honor of Earth & Wellness Day, UAlbany hosted a sustainable living fair that promoted sustainable practices and personal wellness. The event featured food label demonstrations, and a University-wide recipe exchange under this year’s theme, “Eat Smart, Live Green.” A student fair showcased how undergraduates and graduates at UAlbany are committed to community service and environmental sustainability.

A clothing exchange in the Campus Center Assembly Hall advanced an eco-friendly option for recycling clothes, with monetary and clothing donations benefitting the Albany City Mission. Free health screenings were also offered the Campus Center’s Fireside Lounge.

“Our creative and motivated students are the driving force behind the campus’ sustainability efforts,” said Mary Ellen Mallia, director of Environmental Sustainability. “Without their interest and support, we would not be successful in achieving our sustainability goals and making the greater community more aware of sustainable practices.”

The event was co-sponsored by the Office of Environmental Sustainability and the Employee Assistance Program, with funding provided by University Auxiliary Services.

The University's "Go Green" initiative encourages faculty, staff and students to "think and act green" by embracing UAlbany's responsibility to conserve, recycle and beautify the campus and environment. In 2008, the University signed the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment, pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and become climate-neutral. Other University-wide initiatives have included local food purchases, annual energy reduction campaigns, and trayless dining, among others.

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Educationally and culturally, the University at Albany-SUNY puts "The World Within Reach" for its 18,000 students. An internationally recognized research university with 58 undergraduate majors and 128 graduate degree programs, UAlbany is a leader among all New York State colleges and universities in such diverse fields as public policy, nanotechnology and criminal justice. With a curriculum enhanced by 300 study-abroad opportunities, UAlbany launches great careers. For more information about this globally ranked University, visit https://www.albany.edu/. For UAlbany's extensive roster of faculty experts, visit www.albany.edu/news/experts.shtml.