University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
The primary mission of University of Maryland's Center for Environmental Science (UMCES) is to carry out environmental research, train graduate students, and advise the State of Maryland on environmental matters. Within the Center’s broad portfolio of research, faculty members carry out cutting-edge research on the environmental consequences of climate change, options for mitigating climate change, and possible approaches for adapting to the consequences of climate change.
By collaborating with colleagues and providing institutional support to policymakers, UMCES scientists and graduate students are working to understand the regional effects of climate change and charting a path to a more sustainable future. One of the four strategic directions of UMCES research is a focus on 'Regional Consequences of Climate Change and Variability.' The Center also teaches a significant number of graduate-level courses related to climate change and its environmental consequences and environmental management.
The UMCES is a signatory to the American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment and has launched several programs aimed at reducing their environmental footprint:
- The UMCES Climate Action Plan outlines the steps they will be taking to reduce their environmental impact.
- They have taken greenhouse gas inventories and set goals for reducing emissions at each of their laboratories.
- They have upgraded aging infrastructure to newer, more energy-efficient alternatives by working with Constellation Energy. Recently signed agreements will save both energy and reduce costs over the next 15 years.
- All new campus construction will be built to at least the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED Silver standard or equivalent.
- They will purchase or produce at least 15% of the institution's electricity consumption from renewable sources.
- They are a member of the Maryland Green Registry.
UMCES, as a signatory to the Climate Commitment, will make their Climate Action Plan, inventory, and progress reports publicly available by providing them for posting and dissemination on the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment website.
Phone: (410) 228-9250
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