We (the students of Kansas State University [KSU]) urge KSU to take immediate action in creating a comprehensive sustainability action plan. As an influential educational institution, KSU possesses the potential to lead by example and inspire positive change towards a more sustainable future. By establishing a dedicated planning committee, KSU can lead the way in promoting environmental consciousness and ensuring a sustainable future for our university and community.

1. Environmental Impact: According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), universities are responsible for approximately 22 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. KSU's carbon footprint contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in our region. By implementing sustainable practices across campus operations, including energy consumption reduction strategies and waste management improvements, we can significantly reduce this impact. This can be done by implementing a sustainability action plan (which will be set forth by the planning committee).

2. Economic Benefits: Sustainability initiatives extend beyond environmental benefits; they can also yield substantial economic advantages. A study conducted by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) found that energy-efficient measures in buildings can save up to 30% on energy costs annually. By investing in renewable energy sources and energy-efficient infrastructure, KSU can simultaneously conserve valuable resources and alleviate financial burdens.

3. Student Engagement: A sustainable campus fosters student engagement and empowers individuals to become environmentally conscious citizens. According to a survey conducted by Princeton Review, 64% of prospective college students consider sustainability as a crucial factor when selecting their university. Prioritizing sustainability initiatives at KSU will not only attract environmentally-minded students but also provide them with opportunities for involvement and leadership.

4. Educational Opportunities: Implementing a comprehensive sustainability action plan provides unique educational opportunities for students across various disciplines at KSU. Through hands-on experiences involving renewable technologies or research projects focused on sustainable practices, students will gain acquire practical skills that align with emerging job markets centered around environmental stewardship.

5. Peer Institutions' Success: Numerous universities across the United States have successfully implemented sustainability plans resulting in significant positive impacts on both their campuses and surrounding communities.

- The University of California system committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2025, demonstrating the feasibility of ambitious sustainability goals.

- The University of Colorado Boulder has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 22% since 2005, showcasing the potential for long-term progress.

6. Community Engagement: By actively involving local residents through educational programs, organizations, and partnerships focused on environmental stewardship, KSU can cultivate deeper connections within the Manhattan community.

By creating a new sustainability action plan or having sustainability as one of the cornerstones of KSU's new master plan, KSU can join these institutions in leading the way towards a more green and sustainable future. By signing this petition, we urge Kansas State University to prioritize sustainability by establishing a dedicated planning committee that will develop a comprehensive action plan aimed at reducing our carbon footprint while fostering environmental stewardship within our campus community.

*Do not donate money, this is not a petition that needs to be supported by money.

Sources:

- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

- American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)

- Princeton Review