To Be Green Means To Constrain Consumption

Jonathan B. Steinman hopes that a wind turbine atop William James Hall and solar panels on the roof of Cabot Science Library may help inspire members of the University to become “green” (“Green Baby Steps,” comment, Sept. 10). As a Harvard employee for close to 20 years, I see little cause for such hope.

Each year since the University began computerizing, its use of electricity to power its over-abundance of computer monitors, printers and copiers—along with paper usage—has increased. During this same period student demand for more amenities appears to have no limit: libraries must be open 24 hours and serve lattes, buildings which have served satisfactorily for generations need to be updated to provide air-conditioning, and gymnasiums must have all the latest exercise gadgetry. These and other luxuries—out of reach for most of the world’s people as well as most Americans—have a heavy environmental impact.

Unless members of the University constrain their consumption, wind turbines and solar panels will do little more than serve as part of a public relations campaign.



STEPHEN HELFER

Cambridge, MA

October 10, 2007