I receive a report monthly on the University's sustainability efforts. The action of the UCCC seems especially noteworthy. Many thanks to Larry Lee for his continued good work. Read below:
University Climate Commitment Council
The University Climate Commitment Council met on August 27, 2009 to continue discussing climate action planning. At this meeting, the UC3 agreed for the Office of Sustainability to take a unilateral approach to developing the Climate Action Plan (CAP) as opposed to writing the plan through subcommittees. The Office of Sustainability will consult with the various subject matter experts on campus as needed as it develops and writes the plan. The UC3 agreed that this approach was the most pragmatic given the time constraints of when the plan has to be completed.
The Climate Action Plan will develop, in order, the areas listed below:
1. Environmentally responsible purchasing policy.
2. Curriculum development.
3. Transportation plan.
4. Energy (in conjunction with energy partner) plan to include demand, modes of supply, technology development, and emissions projections.
By addressing the four (4) topics above, the Climate Action Plan can then address (as required) strategies to reduce, mitigate, and offset carbon emissions with a goal of climate neutrality by 2050.
Once the plan is written, it will be submitted for UC3 for review and feedback. Once approved by the UC3, it will be submitted to Cabinet for review and feedback.