Colleges Map Hazy Routes to Limiting Emissions

Scott Carlson, who is the main writer covering sustainability for the Chronicle, reported recently on the first deadline for submitting climate action plans, by signatories to the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC). His reporting includes brief vignettes of some of the campus plans.

For many colleges, reaching the lofty goal of climate neutrality is less important than other benefits the process yields. Ms. Nelson, of Second Nature, says that colleges in the climate commitment are prepared for mandatory restrictions in greenhouse-gas emissions, a possibility that has generated buzz recently in Washington. "You're changing the culture around energy consumption," she says, "so when legislation comes down, you're ahead of the curve."

Mr. Henry, of Richland College, says signing the commitment and now preparing a plan has helped change attitudes at his campus—and helped push projects that save money: "You don't know what kind of creativity and resources and colleagues are there until you need them."