How will Cornell develop the CAP?
The initial drafting of the CAP is roughly a year-long process that began in August 2008 and will conclude in September 2009 by review of the Board of Trustees. The outset overlapped with Cornell’s first comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory, which established total annual CO2 emissions – the target sum for reduction. Cornell and its consultants – informed by the input of staff, faculty, students and neighbors – will then weigh the most feasible means of reduction in five major categories: energy conservation (using less energy in existing building); green development (planning for new buildings that use less energy); fuel mix and renewables (seeking fossil alternatives and renewables); transportation (alternatives to commuting and air travel); and, carbon offsets (subsidizing emission-reducing entities). The CAP will make recommendations for implementation of capital improvements and practical policy options on short, intermediate, and long timetables.
