[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 60 (Wednesday, April 25, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E649]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE SUSTAINABLE AND GREEN INITIATIVES OF GEORGE MASON 
                               UNIVERSITY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, April 25, 2012

  Mr. CONNOLLY of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize 
George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, on its recent 
commendation by the 2012 version of The Princeton Review Guide to 322 
Green Colleges and to congratulate GMU on its strong and exemplary 
commitment to sustainability.
  Over the past several years, George Mason has taken a multilateral 
approach to creating a climate neutral campus. The university has 
compiled annual greenhouse gas inventories since 2006, designing its 
first Climate Action Plan in January 2010. In an effort to transition 
to environmentally sound construction, Mason has committed all new 
buildings to seek a LEED Silver designation, with six registered 
projects currently seeking certification. Additionally, all equipment 
on campus much be Energy Star-rated.
  A central component of the university's strategy to reduce campus-
based greenhouse gas emissions has been the development of the scope, 
appeal, and accessibility of public and alternative transportation to 
accommodate the ever-increasing student population.
  Mason students also have played an important role in developing the 
sustainability and environmental responsibility of the University. 
Student organizations like the Environmental Awareness Group, the 
Patriot Green Fund, and the student-run organic vegetable garden 
facilitate opportunities for discussions, student research, and 
exposure of University initiatives to the local community. Students 
also can focus their academic careers through the Environmental 
Science, Environmental and Sustainability Studies majors, the 
Sustainability and Renewable Energy minors, or one of the first Energy 
and Sustainability Master's degree concentrations in the nation.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating all 
members of the George Mason University community for their success in 
creating a responsible and sustainable academic community. By infusing 
sustainability principles into every aspect of higher education, George 
Mason University is training the next generation of leaders to put 
green ideas into practice today.

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