Why at MIT?

One of the most crucial and time sensitive issues of the twenty-first century is the climate crisis.  As a leading center of innovation and research, MIT must rise up to this challenge and play a part in resolving this problem before it is too late. In its mission, our institute asks its students to work wisely, creatively, and effectively for the betterment of humankind. We do what we can, however our individual actions can  only go so far without a greater influence acting with us. For this reason, we ask MIT to challenge its existing norms, to question if its efforts are truly shaping the future we need, and to rise above the tendency to speak without action. A major step that MIT can take to reach this goal is divesting from fossil fuel companies, and we believe that this is a necessary action to show the world that MIT is serious about acting on the climate crisis.

MIT has a reputation as one of the leading science and technology players in the modern world. Our school has a history of engaging in national science and technology policy, driving our country and the world forward to a better future. Whether it has been in the aims of bettering security, creating new technologies to advance artificial intelligence, engaging in key energy research, or simply innovating university STEM education, MIT is known and respected globally for its progressive actions. It has captured the attention of the scientific community, and it has captured the attention of the United States government.

MIT’s ties to the Department of Defense, Department of Energy, NASA, NSA, and other governmental agencies offer it a unique position among peer universities. Its history of impacting lobbying, whether direct or indirect, contributes to a position that makes MIT different. That’s why our school must divest from fossil fuels. We have the influence to force the government to play its hand. We have the influence to make climate change and the negative impact of the fossil fuels industry a more prominent talking point in government decisions. We have the influence to convince other schools and organizations across the United States that we need to act now. 

MIT prides itself as being an educational leader, however it is lagging behind several other universities. To name a few, the UC System, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Georgetown, Boston University have all pledged to fully or partially divested from the fossil fuel industry. MIT needs to make a strong public statement to its commitment to our future and is failing to do so. 

Our school has the reputation, connections, and ability to make a difference. It is up to our administration to accept and act on a moral and social responsibility to provide a better future for our community and the world. It’s simply the right thing to do. The time is now for MIT to divest.