Whereas, it is becoming clear that our long-range welfare, as well as the integrity of the natural environment upon which we ultimately depend, requires a responsible use of the world’s remaining
natural resources and a transition to clean, renewable energy sources,

Whereas, Cornell University has the responsibility to be a global leader and the ability to influence personal and societal attitudes towards responsible energy use,

Whereas, Cornell’s continued growth in energy intensive research facilities will create an everexpanding ecological footprint upon the planet,

Whereas, a reliance upon coal as a major source of campus electricity generation will continue to contribute to the production of gases responsible for global warming, acid precipitation, and air
pollution,

Whereas, coal mining causes serious environmental damage through water pollution, a depletion of the water supply, destruction of land and harm to human health and safety,

Whereas, current conservation measures towards reducing campus electricity use are vital but limited, and a switch to cleaner forms of energy is essential to making a true impact in reducing environmental degradation,

Whereas, new renewable energy generation facilities are available now in New York State providing affordable, clean, and environmentally sound electricity,

Be it therefore resolved, that an endowment be established whose accumulated interest will fund the purchase of electricity created through renewable energy,

Be it further resolved, that the Cornell University administration should make the established endowment a major funding priority so that ten percent of the University’s electricity can be purchased from new renewable energy resources,

Be it finally resolved, that this endowment’s purpose shall expand in the future to include the funding of additional renewable energy and energy conservation measures as they become economical.