In October of 2006, Dr. Machen was the first college president to sign the Presidents Climate Commitment. With this bold move, he committed UF to develop an action plan for carbon neutrality. 561 presidents have followed in these Gator tracks.Last year UF achieved another first -- the first carbon neutral college football game in NCAA history. Gator scientists calculated the carbon footprint for the UF vs. FSU rivalry -- all of the fans driving and flying to the game, hotel electrical usage, and all the stadium and tailgating festivities. 18 acres of forest land in Florida was then placed in an active management plan for 10 years to offset carbon by the same amount.
Inspired by this idea, the non-profit Earth Givers, in coordination with the UF Office of Sustainability and the UAA , are taking the entire 7-game home season carbon neutral. Last year's game proved to be a temendous tool to raise awareness and gain national attention. UF has shown leadership in sustainability, and the nation of champions is ready to do it again. Visit Neutral Gator to show your support today.
