New Mexico State University
PAE-5: Climate Plan

• Create awareness that integrated planning is the process of linking vision, priorities, people, and the physical institution, in a flexible system of evaluation, decision-making and action to shape and guide the entire organization as it evolves over time, within and without its community • Eliminate net greenhouse gas emissions • Make climate neutrality and sustainability a part of the curriculum and other educational experiences of all students • In the stair-step progression to achieve “net zero” emissions, the last measure required will be the purchase or development of carbon offsets • NMSU holds water rights that must be used or forfeited, owns land throughout New Mexico, and has a requirement to purchase or grow feedstock • New Mexico State is well positioned to be a leader in reforestation and sequestration strategies

http://newscenter.nmsu.edu/news/article/3380/ SHORT TERM GOALS COMPLETED • Encourage use and provide access to public transportation at the institution • Set target date, institutional action plan and interim milestones for climate neutrality by April 17, 2009 • Publish and post plans, goals and progress to date • All new construction and major renovations to be US Green Building Councils LEED Silver Certified or higher • Adopt an energy-efficient appliance purchasing policy requiring ENERGY STAR certified products • Create an institutional structure by June 17, 2007 • Complete a greenhouse gas emission inventory by April 17, 2008 SHORT TERM GOALS IN PROCESS • Establish a policy of offsetting all greenhouse gas emissions generated by air travel paid for by the institution • Pursue reasons for disconnect between capital funds and operational funds (“life cycle cost models”) • Complete AASHE STARS report