University President Steven Knapp joined more than 170 higher education leaders in signing an open letter urging President-elect Donald Trump and the next Congress to take action on climate change.

In the letter, the leaders express their commitment to “academic and ethical responsibilities” to supporting research and education about climate change, and to take “aggressive climate action” to preserve the planet for future generations.

“We are committed to developing and deploying innovative climate solutions that provide a prosperous future for all Americans,” the letter reads.

The letter, which was penned by a group of university leaders in collaboration with the Boston-based climate change policy nonprofit Second Nature, calls on the incoming administration to support participation in the Paris Agreement, continue academic and federal research on climate, energy and related policies and to support investments in low-carbon economy.

“Your support for these three areas is a critical investment in the future of the millions of students we serve,” the letter reads. “We will continue to prepare graduates for the workforce as well as lead in world-class research and innovation in order to secure a healthier and more prosperous future for all.”

Tufts and New York universities are the only others of GW’s 11 peer schools who have signed the letter as of Dec. 20, although others can sign onto the letter until Jan. 13.