C O R N E L L U N I V E R S I T Y S T A T E M E N T
Cornell announces moratorium on the consideration of leasing its
property for natural gas drilling
Dec. 23, 2009
The following statement was issued today by Cornell Vice President for
University Communications Tommy Bruce:
* * * * * *
“Cornell University has a proud history of research, teaching and campus
stewardship focused on reducing its environmental footprint, most
notable recently through its: building of a new Waste Management
Facility at the College of Veterinary Medicine; implementing a Climate
Action Plan approved by our Board of Trustees; achieving LEED certified
housing for students on West Campus; and the inauguration of a Combined
Heat and Power facility at its central heating plant. Cornell remains
committed to responsible stewardship and the protection of the environment.
“Recently there has been speculation about the university’s intentions
regarding the leasing of its property for natural gas drilling. The
university is not considering such leasing, and furthermore, we are
announcing a moratorium on any such consideration until federal or state
guidelines on natural gas drilling are established that conform to the
high environmental standards the university holds for stewardship of its
property. The university will not agree to a process that we believe
might constitute a threat to the environmental integrity of our property
or that might adversely affect the quality of life of people living in
the areas that would be impacted by such a process.
“President David Skorton has asked Provost Kent Fuchs to establish an
advisory committee, composed of faculty, students and staff, to
investigate these issues and advise the senior administration on
decisions it may be called upon to make regarding this matter.”
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