Responding to the scientific community’s demonstration that carbon reductions need to accelerate before severe climatic conditions are locked in, Ohio State's current Climate Action Plan details how the university could address 55% of its 2019 emissions by 2030. Some of that work is already underway, including increased energy efficiency targets for university building projects, transforming the Columbus campus energy system, and increased carbon neutral electricity procurement.
Current goal achievement and initiatives
- Carbon Emission Reduction (since 2015 baseline): 31%
- 2023 Emission Footprint: 426,854 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent
- The university’s Sustainable Design and Construction policy includes specific energy use targets by building type for enhanced energy performance in university facilities.
- Implementing energy conservation measures through Ohio State Energy Partners, who is working with the university to make the Columbus campus 25% more energy efficient by 2028.
- Long-term wind power purchase agreement and renewable energy certificates (RECs) purchase. RECs offset the university’s electricity use at all campuses except for the Columbus campus.
Resources
Ohio State Climate Services for Business
Ohio State University Employee Homeownership Incentive to reduce commuting emissions for those working at University Hospital East
COTA Bus Pass Payroll Deduction Program for discounted mass transit travel for lower emission commutes to the Columbus campus