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Mount Saint Mary’s University launched a new environmental studies major last fall that gives students a broad foundation in the scientific, social, political, and legal aspects of pressing environmental issues from multiple angles. From environmental science to environmental law, policy-making and economics, students are equipped to examine concerns such as global climate change from a multi-disciplinary perspective. The new major will prepare students for a broad range of careers in research, non-profit organizations, governmental agencies, law and policy, journalism, and more.

“There is an urgency among this generation to focus on these topics,” says Adriene Jones, PhD, associate professor of biological sciences, who oversees the new studies. “Our students are hungry to connect their research and knowledge to help in the real world.”

The program aligns with the Mount’s overall commitment to environmental justice and sustainability, which is part of the University’s current strategic plan.

There are already several efforts underway to develop sustainable, healthy and resilient campuses. Some of these practices include: the use of renewable energy through over 1,800 solar panels and 60 EV charging stations installed on both campuses; the reopening and expansion of the Chalon community garden (which was destroyed in the 2019 Getty Fire); the addition of more recycling and food composting options; the increase of locally-grown and sourced food in the campus cafeterias; and the exposure of Fair Trade ethics and products at events and on campuses to educate the community about sustainable and equitable trade relationships, among many others.

In addition, last year the Mount joined hundreds of Catholic colleges and universities worldwide to accept the call of Pope Francis’ landmark encyclical, “Laudato Si’: On Care for Our Common Home.”

The Mount is taking the challenge to address climate change seriously and working on a holistic plan that will include the entire community. Last spring, the University formed a Laudato Si’ Action Platform committee consisting of students, faculty, and staff to lead the University’s work to integrate sustainability efforts across both campuses. “This commitment aligns not only with our mission, but our current strategic plan to educate global leaders for the next century,” says Shannon Green, director of the CSJ Institute and co-chair of the Laudato Si’ committee.

The group is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of all the current environmentally friendly practices and protocols at the Mount that will lead to a concrete action plan to fulfill the goals of Laudato Si’.