UCLA and other higher education leaders pen open letter on climate action to incoming Administration and Congress

UCLA, along with presidents and chancellors from other colleges and universities, including 35 states in the U.S., have joined together to urge president-elect Trump and the incoming congressional representatives to accelerate progress towards a clean energy future. Through their open letter, organized by a diverse group of higher education institutions and the Boston-based nonprofit Second Nature, they call on elected officials to support participation in the Paris Agreement, climate research, and investment in the low carbon economy.

“The upcoming transition of federal leadership presents a unique opportunity to address head-on the challenges of climate change by accelerating the new energy economy and creating strong, resilient communities,” wrote the group. “We are committed to developing and deploying innovative climate solutions that provide a prosperous future for all Americans.”

The group of schools expressed their alignment with the business and investment communities in supporting the science-based targets outlined in the Paris Climate Agreement. UCLA has been taking climate action for years, including voluntarily setting carbon neutrality goals, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through early actions in energy efficiency and transportation, with additional initiatives planned.

“As a University we have a deep commitment to research innovative solutions for tomorrow, to serve the greater public good, and to educate the leaders of future generations. Strong federal and international climate action is critical to this mission,” said UCLA Chancellor Gene Block.

A full list of the schools supporting the open letter can be found here.