AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) – The University of Massachusetts has become the first major public university in the United States to divest its endowment from fossil fuels. The unanimous vote from the Board of Directors of the UMass Foundation comes after intense protests on the university’s Amherst campus last month.

The issue of fossil fuel divestment has attracted increased attention recently, due to concerns about global climate change. During the protests last month, students held sit-ins demanding a firm commitment from the university administration on divestment. Some students were arrested for refusing to leave after campus police told them to disperse.

While the protests were going on, UMass President Marty Meehan met with two leaders of the UMass Fossil Fuel Divestment Campaign to talk about their goals. In a statement sent to 22News, Meehan said that Wednesday’s announcement reflects the university’s commitment to dealing with environmental issues.

“This action is consistent with the principles that have guided our university since its Land Grant inception, and reflects our commitment to take on the environmental challenges that confront us all,” Meehan said. “Important societal change often begins on college campuses, and it often begins with students. I’m proud of the students and the entire University community for putting UMass at the forefront of a vital movement, one that has been important to me throughout our professional life.”

In addition to the divestment decision, Meehan said that the university would increase its involvement in offshore wind energy projects, and ensure more funding for sustainable energy and green technologies.