Second Nature Announces Finalists for 2014 Climate Leadership Awards
Second Nature, a nonprofit committed to accelerating climate action in higher education, has announced the 2014 finalists for its annual Climate Leadership Awards. These awards recognize colleges and universities across the U.S. for innovative and effective sustainability and climate initiatives. In addition, they celebrate bold leadership that drives measurable results. For example, many finalists reduce emissions through renewable energy projects and energy efficiency upgrades. Moreover, they engage students directly in sustainability research and service learning. As a result, these institutions set a powerful example for their communities. Furthermore, they demonstrate that climate action can be integrated into every part of campus life, ensuring meaningful change.
Recognizing Innovation in Higher Education
Each year, the Climate Leadership Awards spotlight institutions that demonstrate exceptional leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating sustainability into their curriculum, operations, and community partnerships.
Finalists represent a diverse group of higher education institutions, from large research universities to small liberal arts colleges and community colleges. Their projects include campus-wide energy efficiency upgrades, renewable energy installations, zero-waste initiatives, sustainability-focused degree programs, and strong community outreach efforts.
Selection Process
Second Nature runs the awards program in partnership with the American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). An independent panel of judges evaluates submissions based on innovation, measurable impacts, and replicability.
The goal is to celebrate leadership that inspires other institutions to accelerate their own climate action. By showcasing best practices and scalable solutions, the awards help drive collective progress across the sector.
The Bigger Picture
As climate change intensifies, colleges and universities have a critical role to play in preparing the next generation of leaders, reducing institutional carbon footprints, and serving as models for their communities. Moreover, they act as innovation hubs that can test and showcase new solutions. Consequently, these institutions influence policy, drive local economic development, and inspire broader cultural change.
Second Nature’s Climate Leadership Awards highlight institutions that treat climate action as both an operational responsibility and also an educational mission. Therefore, they prioritize hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for green careers. From solar arrays to green building standards and sustainability coursework, these schools prove that real change is possible. Even more importantly, they show how collaboration and vision can turn climate goals into meaningful action, encouraging others to follow their lead.
About Second Nature
Second Nature works with higher education institutions to advance climate solutions and resilience. Through initiatives like the Presidents’ Climate Leadership Commitments and also the University Climate Change Coalition (UC3), it supports colleges and universities in setting and achieving bold climate goals.
Sources
- Second Nature – Climate Leadership Awards
- American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC)
BOSTON, MA- Full List of Finalists
Sources: Second Nature, American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment
