Today is Earth Day, and I have good news to share from campus.
Although we are not all on campus together at this time, I want to assure you that the College’s efforts related to sustainability continue. The President’s Environmental Sustainability Council (PESC) is connecting virtually, the student-run Environmental Action Coalition (EAC) is hosting weekly meetings and encouraging members of our community to practice good environmental stewardship, the Linnaeus Arboretum’s paths are filled with Saint Peter residents walking the trails (socially distancing of course), and the ongoing renovation of Nobel Hall is propelling us toward even greater energy efficiency.
Yesterday, City of Saint Peter administrator Todd Prafke, finance director Sally Vogel, and public works director Pete Moulton presented the College with a check for $186,388 in energy rebates. These rebates reflect over 1,000,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy savings and are the result of the College’s good work in managing the Nobel Hall expansion and renovation project with an eye toward energy efficiency. The rebate funds are already being put to work on campus in support of our sustainability initiatives and other key areas.
On this, the 50th celebration of Earth Day, I encourage you to take part by getting outside to enjoy our increasingly warm weather wherever you are at this time. Pick up any litter you come across and snap a picture to post using #GustavusEarthDay or to email to the EAC. If you have implemented sustainability measures in your own homes, feel free to share those photos as well. Let us show the world how Gusties are celebrating Earth Day.
Today, I hope that you have a chance to pause, reflect, and take conscious and meaningful actions to celebrate the Earth that we all call home.
Yours in community,
President Bergman