Editorial published Oct 28, 2009
Go WMU, on green tech
South Bend Tribune
Western Michigan University last week scored $1 million for green
engineering studies.
The landmark program aims to assist companies (small companies in
particular) take advantage of environmentally benign and
energy-conscious materials in their design and manufacturing processes.
U.S. Rep. Fred Upton, R-St. Joseph, announced the allocation. It is part
of the latest round of funding in the Energy and Water Appropriations
Act, approved by the House and Senate and awaiting the president's
signature to be enacted into law.
The news comes not a minute too soon. The United States has a lot of
catching up to do with western European countries and China already
heavily invested in this hot growth industry. Michigan and the nation
will gain a tremendous economic boost if they can lead the competition.
The Michigan Economic Development Corp. is spearheading the charge on
alternative energy and environmentally-friendly business in the state.
Given the state's abundant science, natural resources, engineering and
university resources, there is no better place in the world to tackle
the challenges.WMU has garnered hundreds of thousands in federal
allocations for its core lab to develop carbon capture and sequestration
technologies, as well as the research and development of algae biofuels.
Upton, a top Republican on the House Energy and Environment Subcommittee
and strong supporter of green technologies and renewable energy, has
done a good job positioning WMU and Michigan to be at the forefront of
the revolution in environmental science and commerce.
The million-dollar grant to WMU's engineering school will help
disadvantaged Michigan workers and students now when they need it the
most. We trust their efforts will translate into winning research and
manufacturing ideas that will serve the entire country far into the future.