Greenwood, MA — Greenwood University has unveiled a bold new sustainability initiative aimed at transforming its 150-acre campus into one of the most environmentally conscious academic institutions in the country.
At a press conference held Tuesday morning, University President Dr. Michelle Alston introduced the “Green Future 2025” plan, a multi-phase roadmap to achieve carbon neutrality by 2027. The initiative includes sweeping changes in energy use, food systems, transportation, and academic programming.
“We believe that higher education has a responsibility to lead the way,” Alston said. “This isn’t just a plan for Greenwood—this is a model we hope other institutions will follow.”
Key Elements of the Plan
The university will transition to 100% renewable electricity by the end of next year, largely powered by a newly approved solar array project behind the science center. Other changes include:
- Campus-wide composting and zero-waste dining halls
- Elimination of single-use plastics in all university-owned buildings
- A bike-share program and electric shuttle expansion
- A new undergraduate major in Climate Policy & Sustainable Design
Facilities Director Ben Tran noted that while some infrastructure upgrades will require upfront investment, the long-term savings in utilities and waste management are expected to offset costs by 2030.
Student-Led, Faculty-Supported
The plan grew out of a proposal submitted by the Greenwood Environmental Action Team (GREAT), a student organization that has pushed for greener policies since 2019.
“It’s amazing to see our ideas being taken seriously at the highest level,” said Maya Collins, a junior studying Environmental Studies and president of GREAT. “This feels like real change—not just slogans.”
Faculty have also played a central role. A new interdisciplinary working group will monitor progress and publish annual sustainability reports, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Mixed Reactions from Alumni
While the announcement has drawn praise from environmental groups and local officials, some alumni expressed skepticism about the financial feasibility of the plan. Others raised concerns about possible tuition increases.
University officials assured attendees that no tuition hikes are currently planned as a result of the initiative.
What’s Next
Construction on the new sustainability center will begin this fall, and students returning for the spring 2026 semester will be among the first to experience several major changes, including a zero-emissions residence hall pilot program.
With growing pressure on institutions to act on climate change, Greenwood University’s move positions it at the forefront of a growing movement in higher education.
“We don’t have the luxury of waiting,” President Alston concluded. “The future is green—and it starts now.”
