Dear Editors:
This is in response to the recent letter you ran on climate action. I appreciate the students’ thoughtful comments and dedication to the future of sustainability on campus. This remains a priority for me, as well. Climate change is an issue that our country must address, and as Chancellor, I am committed to ensuring Carolina plays its role.
We have made steady progress since Carolina launched the Three Zeros goals of net-zero water usage, zero waste to landfills and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Since 2007, Carolina has reduced its coal use by 30 percent through system efficiency improvements and increased natural gas use.
In December 2019, the University completed a construction project at the Cogeneration Facility, which will allow it to increase the amount of natural gas it burns from approximately 25 percent to 50 percent or more in 2020. As a result, coal use will significantly decrease, and campus greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by 5 percent.
For the past three years, the University has been developing a plan that is achievable, practical and effective. This Three Zeros Roadmap is the result of years of scientific study, campus input and financial commitment. It includes a timeline and action plans for achieving our net zero goals in a realistic timeframe. I appreciate the work that has been done and have asked that the roadmap be completed and shared with the campus community this semester so that we can ensure transparency and accountability on this important topic.
I am glad to see our students so engaged with this important topic — cross campus collaboration of ideas and commitment is a key part of the pledge we uphold. I stand with you in committing to a healthier campus, community and world.
Chancellor Kevin M. Guskiewicz
