Coordination and Planning
Coordination and planning are essential components of sustainable development, aligning with AASHE STARS' framework. This category focuses on establishing clear sustainability goals, strategic planning, and effective governance structures that foster long-term sustainability. UToledo’s approach to sustainability includes dedicated offices, comprehensive planning, and strong institutional commitments, ensuring that sustainability is embedded in its operations, academics, and community engagement.
Key Initiatives
- Office of Sustainability
The Office of Sustainability at UToledo oversees all sustainability initiatives, facilitating collaboration across departments and managing sustainability projects. It serves as a central hub for planning and coordination, ensuring that sustainability goals align with the university’s overall mission. This approach aligns with AASHE’s goals by establishing a clear administrative structure to advance sustainability across campus. - Strategic Sustainability Planning
UToledo has a comprehensive Sustainability Strategic Plan that outlines clear objectives, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and promoting water conservation. This plan aligns with AASHE’s criteria for strategic planning, emphasizing long-term goals, clear metrics, and regular assessments to ensure continuous improvement. - Sustainability Advisory Committee
UToledo’s Sustainability Advisory Committee includes faculty, staff, and students who contribute to sustainability planning and decision-making. The committee’s role is to advise on policies, prioritize initiatives, and monitor progress toward sustainability goals. This governance structure supports AASHE’s emphasis on inclusive and collaborative planning. - Carbon Neutrality and Climate Action Planning
The university’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2058 involves detailed planning across various sectors, including energy, transportation, and waste management. Climate action plans are updated regularly, reflecting AASHE’s goal of ensuring adaptive and forward-thinking sustainability strategies.
Achievements and Impact
- Comprehensive Sustainability Plan
UToledo’s strategic plan has guided sustainability initiatives across campus, helping to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 48.6% from FY15 to FY23. This demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated planning in achieving tangible sustainability outcomes. - Increased Stakeholder Engagement
The Sustainability Advisory Committee has increased collaboration between faculty, staff, and students, leading to a more engaged campus community. This level of stakeholder involvement aligns with AASHE’s criteria for inclusive governance and transparency in sustainability planning. - Integration of Sustainability into Academic Programs
Through coordination efforts, UToledo has integrated sustainability into curriculum development, supporting AASHE’s focus on sustainability education. Programs like the Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies degree programs incorporate sustainability concepts, ensuring that students are prepared to address global challenges.
Why It Matters
Effective coordination and planning are foundational to sustainable development. By aligning with AASHE’s criteria, UToledo ensures that sustainability is embedded in its operations, decision-making, and long-term goals. A strategic approach to sustainability not only enhances campus infrastructure but also prepares students to become leaders in sustainability, contributing to global efforts for a better future.