New Loan-Forgiveness Program Promotes Green Technologies

In an effort to encourage both economic efficiency and sustainability, Governor M. Jodi Rell proposed on Wedneday a loan-forgiveness program for Connecticut College students who earn degrees in “green technology,” life sciences, or health-related information technology. Delivered to the General Assembly on Feb. 3, the program is part of her proposed spending-plan for the the new fiscal year.

Although the program would apply to Wesleyan if approved, the Office of Financial Aid and Director of University Media Relations David Pesci were both unfamiliar with the proposal.

Students would receive as much as $2,500 annually for up to five years on the condition that they remain in the state for at least two years following graduation. Although the proposed program would be open to students who receive degrees in more traditional majors such as Biology and Neuroscience and Behavior, it would also be geared towards students pursuing the Earth and Environmental Science major, or the new Environmental Studies Major at the University.

Promoting sustainable development, “green technology” is the application of environmental science to conserve the natural environment and its resources. After graduating, students from junior colleges and four-year institutions who take advantage of the program would be required to participate in agricultural, manufacturing, administrative, or service work devoted to the “preservation of environmental quality,” which could include the research and development of renewable energy, sustainable manufacturing, and biofuels.

The program is part of a larger effort to balance the state budget and foster economic recovery through the development of green technology.  The proposal is awaiting approval from the state legislature.