Faces of Sustainability: Peter Gagnon

Peter Gagnon is involved in many sustainability groups throughout the campus. "I'd actually have to take the time to figure out what the committees are called, or if they're just groups of interested people trying to get stuff done," said Gagnon. He is mostly involved with research pertaining to Sustainable buildings.

Gagnon thinks the sustainability program is moving in the right direction, but that were behind when compared to other schools. "Were a bit behind the eight ball in relation to other state institutions in actual completed projects, but overall we have a solid foundation" said Gagnon. That's not to say that sustainability isn't making headway. He views sustainability as an initiative with nothing to lose and everything to gain.

He cites the economical, environmental and political gains as to why sustainability is such a win win situation. The efforts of UMD go a long way and contribute to the promotion of sustainable initiatives.

Gagnon is interested in the new industries and products that are being developed to improve the way we gather, store and use energy. "The research is the catalyst for a sustainable future," said Gagnon, who has high hopes for the program on and off campus.

He envisions sustainability becoming more than just a word that's thrown around in relation to the price of gas. "Our children will have to live in a world of "less," and be comfortable in that world. This is not an easy concept for a generation that expects it all and generally gets it all."