Realistically, a Climate Action Plan resulting in complete climate neutrality takes years to implement. Work often begins slowly, initiated with no- or low-cost projects, then advances to larger-scale projects requiring more capital investment. In addition, carbon-reduction tends to be proportionate to capital investment; this means that an institution may only realize small reductions in carbon emissions during the beginning phases of their plan. However, don't be discouraged! Small successes are often invaluable in justifying larger projects with higher costs.
Throughout the iterative process of implementing parts of the climate action plan, re-inventorying, and setting new goals, consideration should be given along the way to
Your institution's overall vision of climate neutrality should be reflected in its long-term Climate Action Plan. It represents your institution's final destination, the summative result of each smaller program or activity completed. Long-range planning helps your institution reach the top rung of its Climate Action Plan "ladder" by conducting smaller programs, progressively climbing the "rungs" to realize its ultimate goal of climate neutrality. In considering smaller projects, colleges and universities should take care that they fit clearly within and contribute to the long-term goal.
Setting benchmarks for carbon emission reductions within your institution's Climate Action Plan is very important. Through these benchmarks, your institution can gauge its progress, celebrating successes and renewing dedication to further progress. However, realistic goals are not always easy to determine, especially in the beginning stages of a plan, when historical data on which to estimate results is unavailable. At first, it may be better to underestimate results in order to ensure success. However, as the Climate Action Plan progresses and precedents for emission reduction are established, strive for realistic but challenging goals that affect meaningful progress toward climate neutrality. Of course, benchmarks must be measurable, so information and tracking systems must be in place in order to access emission reduction data easily.
Everyone participating in the college or university system is ultimately responsible for successfully carrying out the Climate Action Plan. Goals are more easily reached when everyone understands their role in the process and works together toward success. Stakeholder involvement at every stage of the Climate Action Plan is critical to obtaining buy-in and cooperation. In addition, communications should focus on informing stakeholders about sustainability programs and their participatory roles and responsibilities. Accurate accountability also ensures that those who played a part in emission reductions are appropriately recognized.
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