Green Fees, not just for Golf

Today, I attended the College of Charleston’s open session for Dr. David Liptak, from Yale University, a candidate for the campus Sustainability Director position. After eliminating over 60 applicants, he is one of five possible candidates competing for this job. Although, I could not find the job description on the College of Charleston’s website, I did find that this position is not a new concept for other colleges around the world and the directors’ responsibility is to maintain a green campus, including: recycling incentives, new environmental technology and most importantly, engaging all students. The College of Charleston will also start administering an additional $10 per semester Green Fee which will go towards the CofC’s Sustainability Committee. The money will help with long term projects to reduce the college’s footprint. Dr. Liptak had plenty to say about the economics of this green fee, he suggested having alumni, community members, and families match the funds because “sustainable teamwork does not just include the college”. People and students alike investing in this Green Fee are going to want to see changes, almost immediately. This will be a problem for anyone taking this position considering they will most likely be new to Charleston and new to the college and will need time for a learning curve to see who is involved and what support they will receive from the school and community. Another challenge is going to be incorporating the Historic Buildings in any green ideas. There are strict codes for historically significant buildings and keeping the building as authentic as possible may be difficult. My suggestion is to make sure all clubs, organization, classes, students and professors are all aware of a goal, such as a mission statement set by the Sustainability Director and have everyone work towards that goal. When Dr. Liptak was asked what sustainability meant to him his response included “because it’s the right thing to do”. After hearing today’s candidate, I am somewhat indifferent if the College needs a Sustainability Director or if that extra $40 a semester will make a significant noticeable difference to the college. Tomorrow’s last candidate is having an open session in RHSC, Room 123 at 1:00pm.