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Is the “maize‐and‐blue” turning green? Sustainability at the University of Michigan

Michael Shriberg (Chatham College, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA)

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education

ISSN: 1467-6370

Article publication date: 1 September 2003

1258

Abstract

Although popular press and internal media have dubbed the University of Michigan (U of M) a “sustainability leader”, it is not clear whether this label reflects a true commitment to environmental and interrelated social issues or simply a savvy public relations campaign. This case study (1997‐2002) explores these possibilities by analyzing the environmental organizational change process and outcomes at Michigan through my experiences as a student, activist, researcher and employee. I conclude that while the U of M is not an environmental laggard, the recent media attention exaggerates the campus’ progress by ignoring the fact that sustainability efforts are scattered and have not deeply permeated the culture, leadership, policies and practices of the institution. In terms of campus sustainability advocacy, this analysis highlights the importance of coordination and institutional leaders, a “spark” to move environmental issues onto the campus agenda, and tailoring advocacy approaches to stakeholder interests.

Keywords

Citation

Shriberg, M. (2003), "Is the “maize‐and‐blue” turning green? Sustainability at the University of Michigan", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 4 No. 3, pp. 263-276. https://doi.org/10.1108/14676370310485465

Publisher

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MCB UP Ltd

Copyright © 2003, MCB UP Limited

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