Plan Summary
THE TIME FOR ACTION Throughout Interlochen’s history, sustainability has been a major priority at Interlochen Center for the Arts. For decades, students have learned about healthy environmental practices in ecology classes at Arts Academy. Our efforts have accelerated in recent years. Since receiving the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School Award in 2019, we have continued to make consistent strides to becoming a leader in sustainability. We believe that since we have been blessed with so many incredible natural resources, we have a responsibility to steward them well. As Interlochen reaches its centennial in 2028, we will accomplish a host of vital climate action strategies, making a firm statement about who we are as an organization and setting the stage for lasting growth. Our efforts ensure that we support young artists in a sustainable way for years to come. NATURE MEETS THE ARTS At Interlochen, we recognize that there is a unique synergy between sustainability and the arts. On the back of Interlochen’s Kresge auditorium is inscribed this phrase, dating back to 1948: Dedicated to the Promotion of World Friendship through the Universal Language of the Arts. This statement reminds us that the power of the arts is our common humanity. When we listen to music that moves us, or watch a play that makes us rethink our lives, we remember what it is to be human—what we have in common with every other person in the world. In a similar way, our commitment to sustainability serves to remind us that we all share the Earth as our home. We all depend on our ecosystem to provide habitat for us. Equipped with this deeper understanding, Interlochen’s students emerge with the passion to become changemakers. They use their artistic gifts to inspire positive action and create a better future for us all. AMBITIOUS GOALS With this vision in mind, we have developed a set of ambitious goals for Learning & Engagement, Sustainable Operations, and Buildings & Energy. We will accomplish these goals through strategies which range from revising Academy curriculum to conducting annual energy audits. This Climate Action Plan is meant to be a visual and factual aid to everyone in our community as we unite around our shared purpose. Achieving these goals will require the dedicated effort of students, staff, faculty, and friends who share our commitment to sustainability. We invite our entire community to join us in our efforts, keep us accountable, and celebrate each success. Together, we will make our space between the lakes an enduring haven for the arts, marked by deep care for our community and a sense of gratitude and responsibility for our uniquely beautiful environment.
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