Students take action to reduce carbon emissions in community

Mount Allison University students will be doing their part this year to ensure a 'greener' future for Sackville, setting an example that Coun. John Higham hopes the town will follow.

"I think the students have laid down the challenge," said Higham last month following a presentation about the new student-driven Green Investment Fund.

"Basically, they're challenging the 7,000 minds of this area to come up with ideas that will help reduce carbon emissions."

During a Students' Administrative Council (SAC) referendum last spring, Mount A students overwhelmingly supported a move to raise student fees come this fall, adding on a $10 green levy aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the community, both on and off campus.

The new SAC Green Investment Fund will be used towards initiatives such as increasing the use of solar panels or geo-thermal technology in the community; using higher-quality insulation in some buildings; installing solar-powered streetlights; or partnering with local organizations to further develop tree nurseries.

Priority will be given to projects that reduce the greatest amount of carbon in the shortest period of time.

The increased student fees will bring in anywhere from $20,000 to $24,000 each year, and the fund will be governed by an environmental affairs committee that will be made up entirely of students.

Alex MacDonald, the SAC's vice-president of external relations, told council during its monthly meeting that the Green Investment Fund is believed to be the first project of its kind in North America.

He said the initiative extends outside the university because students recognize climate change as an issue beyond campus.

"We want to work on projects that will benefit the entire community," he said.

Both Coun. Virgil Hammock and Coun. Margaret Tusz-King applauded the students for their vision, saying they're appreciative of the action that is being taken by the student body.

"I'm excited about this project," said Tusz-King.

MacDonald said the committee will soon be making a request to the public for project ideas, and he explained the application process will require a one-page overview of the project, letters of support, a detailed budget, and blueprints.