We gathered in the newly constructed green applied research building to hear what NAU is doing to be a green campus and turn out sustainability-conscious grads. Others spoke of climate issues, and there was lively questioning and answering. Concluded with a tour of the building, which is delightful. We were from out of town and attended here because it fit our route, and we were welcomed warmly.

For our second Step It Up event in Flagstaff, Arizona, we met (and toured) at the new Applied Research and Development Building on the campus of Northern Arizona University. This building has been recognized as one of the ten most efficient such buildings in the nation (LEED Certified at the Platinum level). We learned that the President of the University has accepted the challenge of transforming the campus to be carbon neutral.

This event was a joint effort of three different groups based in Flagastaff. This event was again sponsored by Campus Climate Challenge, and the Christians For the Earth group at Flagstaff Federated Community Church. The third group helping put it all together was the Community and World Commission at the First Congregational Church/UCC in Flagstaff. Thank you to John Leung from this church for opening our discussion, and another church member, Bobbie Ursin, who helped coordinate this event.

Mike Madigan from the Center for Sustainability at NAU gave a presentation on the efforts being made at the university, then led us on a tour of their remarkably efficient building.

Matt Hurteau discussed the latest science and answered many questions related to global warming. Members from Christians For the Earth helped with the sign-in table and gave people the green finger.