In print | September 25, 2008

To the editor:

We have some news. Over at Haverford there are 1169 students that think they are better than us. Normally we could dismiss this irrational thought because we know better. But not this time, my friends. Here at Swarthmore we are running on 60% non-renewable energy sources, 54.6% of which is coal. Meanwhile, the energy that Haverford purchases is 100% wind power. We have more money, prettier trees, the Crum, and smarter people. We have to step it up.

So, Earthlust is taking care of you this year. In order to reclaim our rightful position of superiority, we are proposing a switch to 100% wind energy purchases in two years. Now our motivations do not stem solely from a petty neighborly competition. As a liberal arts college dedicated to enriching our society and ourselves, we have a responsibility to take reasonable steps towards sustainable living. We have begun the process with the LEED standard buildings on campus, but there is more to be done. American colleges and universities have an immense amount of symbolic power to effect change in this country. It would be inexcusable and antithetical to Swarthmore’s status as an institution of social and educational progress to remain passive on this issue. There is enough wind energy up for cultivation in the U.S. to power our entire country. It is a free, clean gift, and we are wasting it. If the younger generation doesn’t act, who will?

Starting today we will be circulating a petition demanding that Swarthmore College purchases 100% wind energy, culminating in a mariachi band-green feet paint-paper wind mill flying rally on the Parrish steps next Friday, October 3rd. We’ve made it easy for you this time. Look for us sporting green eco-warrior face stripes. Feel free to wear your own. Check reserved students for rally details. There will also be an Olde Club Party next Thursday after Pub Night.

This semester is a crucial time to visibly support sustainable energy consumption. The 2020 Planning Committee needs to see those who support wind energy making their demands. An arboretum that gets over half its energy from the coal industry just makes no sense.

Camille Rogine ’11
Blaine O’Neill ’11
Jacob Socolar ’11

« RETURN TO OPINIONS

« PREV ARTICLE | NEXT ARTICLE »