Impact of IU’s faculty and students felt at home and around the world

Yesterday was Earth Day, which reminds me of the critical role Indiana University plays in leading academic and research initiatives that are making significant strides in creating a healthier planet and society. At IU, we recognize the urgency of addressing climate challenges and are deeply committed to fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for our state and beyond.

Our dedication to environmental stewardship manifests in a multitude of ways, including through the Integrated Program in the Environment, which brings together faculty, students, and staff from 10 IU schools. Offering more than 35 environmental degree programs thanks to the expertise of 160 affiliated faculty, the Integrated Program in the Environment is a portal for academics, research, creative activities, and organizations focusing on the environment. Its interdisciplinary nature reflects a dedication to preparing the next generation of scientists, policymakers, communicators, and leaders who face significant and complex environmental and sustainability challenges. 

The McKinney Climate Fellows program is an initiative that connects students with multiple sectors, empowering them to contribute their knowledge and skills to real-world sustainability projects. Since 2017, this program has helped students gain invaluable practical experience while organizations benefit from the fellows' fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. Their efforts are helping to bridge the gap between academia and the workforce, ensuring a pipeline of sustainability leaders for years to come. 

We are additionally working with partners throughout the state through IU’s Environmental Resilience Institute, recently honoring 12 Hoosier Resilience Heroes for their outstanding contributions to building a more sustainable Indiana. These heroes hail from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, including farming, student activism, and local government, sharing a common purpose of protecting our environment. 

Alongside these efforts, it is rewarding to see the passion for sustainability playing out on our campuses as part of the adoption of our Climate Action Plan, which addresses operational pathways for IU to achieve carbon neutrality in university-owned assets and purchased utilities by 2040. Specifically, IU Office of Sustainability is playing a key role in empowering and equipping students, faculty, and staff to lead the way in climate action and sustainability across our campus communities. 

Our work also has a national reach, as exemplified by a recent project undertaken by IU researchers. Focused on identifying optimal locations for carbon capture and storage facilities, researchers are harnessing a crucial technology in the fight against the impacts of a changing climate. We’re well on our way to neutrality with a 42% reduction in IU Bloomington’s emissions since 2010.

As demonstrated in our IU 2030 strategic plan, IU remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability, continually seeking new avenues to expand our impact and contribute to a greener tomorrow.

Pamela Whitten

President
Indiana University