Overview

Global warming has climbed to the top of the public agenda, thanks in part to recent reports emphasizing the scientific consensus that climate change is happening and is a product of human environmental interference. Countries, cities, businesses, and individuals have begun to recognize and minimize their impact. The American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (PCC) is an opportunity for institutions of higher education to step up and take this same responsibility.

Our Promise

As a signatory to the PCC, Ohio University has promised to conduct a comprehensive greenhouse gas emissions inventory of our campus and, within the first two years of signing, to develop a specific plan for achieving climate neutrality. In addition, PCC signatories have agreed to initiate at least two of the following short-term actions:

• adopting green standards for buildings
• requiring that products the university purchases be Energy Star-certified
• offsetting emissions resulting from air travel
• encouraging public transportation
• purchasing energy from renewable sources
• supporting climate and sustainability proposals from business partners

A Unique Agreement

The Presidents Climate Commitment is the first effort by any major sector of society to set climate neutrality – not just a reduction - as its target. This undertaking by America's colleges and universities is inspired by efforts such as the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, the U.S. Climate Action Partnership and other collective efforts by states and businesses.

For more information, view an informative powerpoint presented at Ohio U during a public forum about the Presidents Climate Commitment in the spring of 2006.

Or, check out how the PCC coincides with Ohio government climate efforts, including House Bill 251 and the Governor's Executive Order 2007-02S, by clicking here.