WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE PLEDGES TO “GO GREEN” AND REDUCE GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS 

Westchester Community College has joined the growing list of colleges which have signed an agreement to make institutional commitments to neutralize greenhouse gas emissions and to accelerate the research and educational efforts to equip society to re-stabilize the earth’s climate.

“The American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment effort recognizes the responsibility of institutions of higher education to serve as role models for their communities and to train those who will develop solutions to reverse global warming,” says Dr. Joseph N. Hankin, president of Westchester Community College.

As part of the agreement, the college will inventory greenhouse gas emissions, develop a comprehensive plan to achieve climate neutrality, and   track progress on various goals and actions regarding regulating emissions. The college will also encourage the use of and provide access to public transportation for members of the college community.

Meanwhile, the college is about to begin construction on a new “green” building. The Gateway Center, which is scheduled to open in 2010, will house business, language, volunteer and international student programs, as well as the English Language Institute and the Professional Development Center. The 70,000 square-foot structure is being designed by the internationally-renowned Polshek Partnership architectural firm.