Sustainability

Most of us are aware of the problems associated with extensive vehicle use: air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, loss of forest and rural land, traffic congestion, reduced community vitality, dependence on foreign oil. Solutions to these problems are less evident; however, Carleton should strive to mitigate its institutional contributions to these issues.

In considering Carleton’s environmental impacts, transportation is an important aspect of the college operations to examine. According to Jason Lord’s 2005 study of Carleton’s greenhouse gas emissions, transportation accounts for roughly one tenth of the College's emissions. Additionally, transportation is a highly visible indicator of Carleton’s commitment to reducing its contribution to global warming.

This page will primarily define College-related transportation emissions as dealing with travel related to College business. Although this does not assume that the College is responsible for faculty and staff commuting, and individual student travel, these additional sources must be recognized as significant and Carleton should make an effort to mitigate the impacts from these sources.

(Additionally, the indicators, topics, and goals that you will find on this page have been developed by members of the Transportation Subcommittee of the College's Environmental Advisory Committee and are not necessarily the opinions or priorities of Carleton College)