MI SB0916

Amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act to establish environmental education goals focused on understanding natural systems and their connection to human activity.

Creates a green colleges and universities recognition program administered by the Department of Environmental Quality that ranks institutions in gold, silver, and bronze categories based on environmental sustainability achievements.

Recognition program evaluates institutions across 12 criteria including greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, transportation options, LEED-certified buildings, local food sourcing, water management, waste diversion, sustainability coursework, campus outreach, dedicated sustainability personnel, environmental research, and internship programs.

Establishes a Green College and University Advisory Council composed of one faculty member and one student from each participating Michigan higher education institution to advise the Department on program development.

Advisory Council provisions expire 2 years after the bill's effective date, which occurs 90 days after enactment.