‘We’re Still In’

Interim President Stellar Signs on to Climate Pledge

Interim President James Stellar joined more than 1,200 business, government and education leaders in signing a pledge supporting the Paris climate agreement. (Photo by Mark Schmidt)

The letter, titled “We Are Still In,” says President Donald Trump’s decision to pull out of the agreement “undermines a key pillar in the fight against climate change and damages the world's ability to avoid the most dangerous and costly effects of climate change. Importantly, it is also out of step with what is happening in the United States.”

Interim President Stellar lauded the letter, citing the need to send a strong message to the White House. “It is critical that we speak with a forceful, unified voice to push for policies that stem the tide of carbon emissions, and I’m proud to be part of this broad and diverse coalition of leaders from across the U.S.”

The signatories include governors of five states, including New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and California, as well as leaders of 125 cities including the mayors of Albany, New York City, Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles. About 200 college and university presidents and chancellors signed on, including Stellar, SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher, and presidents of SUNY colleges at Purchase, New Paltz and Stony Brook.

“The University at Albany strives to be a model of environmental stewardship for our students and the community around us and therefore have an obligation and opportunity to research and implement next generation energy systems and practice sustainable behaviors,” said Mary Ellen Mallia, the University’s director of sustainability. “We are proud to stay alongside the other institutions of higher education and members of the coalition and remain committed to the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.”

More than 900 businesses, from small businesses to Fortune 500 corporations including Google, Microsoft and Nike, have also signed on.

“In the absence of leadership from Washington, states, cities, colleges and universities, businesses and investors, representing a sizeable percentage of the U.S. economy will pursue ambitious climate goals, working together to take forceful action and to ensure that the U.S. remains a global leader in reducing emissions,” the letter says.

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