Webster dictionaries have been trusted as reliable sources since they first were published. The dictionary definition of the word “achievement” is “a result gained by effort” (“Achievement”). This is a very simply stated definition that has a broad applicability. Any kind of effort, big or small, has a result, and thus something is achieved. The dictionary that this definition came from is a nationwide known dictionary for reference that is used in the academic setting and personal setting. This is a very reliable source that relates to the general public’s view of achievement.
Being in the Environmental Science discipline, the definition of achievement generally revolves around helping the environment and human society. The mission statement of the University of Michigan’s School of Natural Resources and Environment states that “through research, teaching and outreach, faculty, staff and students are devoted to generating knowledge and developing policies, techniques and skills to help practitioners manage and conserve natural and environmental resources to meet the full range of human needs on a sustainable basis” (“About the School”). The University of Michigan’s School of Natural Resources and Environment’s mission statement is credible because the school helps people obtain degrees in environmental science, and it gives the graduates tools to achieve in
Cited: "About the School of Natural Resources and Environment." School of Natural Resources and Environment | University of Michigan. Web. 12 Oct. 2011. <http://www.snre.umich.edu/about_snre>. “Acheivement.” Merriam-Webster 's Dictionary and Thesaurus. Springfield, MA. 2006. Print. Hayes, Denis. "Solar and Wind Power Held Hostage – Again by Denis Hayes: Yale Environment 360." Yale Environment 360: Opinion, Analysis, Reporting & Debate. 02 Sept. 2008. Web. 12 Oct. 2011. <http://e360.yale.edu/feature/solar_and_wind_power_held_hostage_again/2060/>.