The University of Tulsa can divest from carbon-intensive energy industries, such as coal and oil, by following a strategic and deliberate process. Divestment is a way to align the university’s investments with its environmental and ethical values. Here are steps TU can take to divest from carbon-intensive energy industries:
- Thorough Review of Investments:
- Conduct a comprehensive review of the university’s investment portfolio to identify holdings in carbon-intensive energy industries. This may involve working with investment advisors or consultants.
- Develop Divestment Guidelines:
- Create clear guidelines for divestment that specify the criteria for divestment, such as the percentage of revenue derived from fossil fuels or other specific benchmarks.
- Engage with Investment Managers:
- Meet with the university’s investment managers and express the decision to divest from carbon-intensive energy industries. Discuss the timeline for divestment and the impact on investment strategies.
- Explore Alternative Investments:
- Work with investment professionals to identify alternative investment opportunities that align with the university’s values and financial goals. Consider investments in renewable energy, clean technology, and sustainable funds.
- Gradual Divestment Strategy:
- Consider a phased divestment strategy that allows for a responsible and sustainable transition away from fossil fuels. This approach can minimize financial risks.
- Engage in Shareholder Advocacy:
- Use the university’s shareholder influence to advocate for environmentally responsible practices within carbon-intensive energy companies. This may involve shareholder resolutions or direct engagement with company leadership.
- Reporting and Transparency:
- Maintain transparency by regularly reporting progress on the divestment process to stakeholders, including the university community and the public.
- Reinvestment Strategies:
- Determine how the funds divested from carbon-intensive energy industries will be reinvested in alignment with the university’s values. Consider green or sustainable investments that support environmental and social goals.
- Communication and Public Relations:
- Communicate the university’s commitment to divestment and its reasons for doing so. Share this commitment with the university community, donors, and the broader public.
- Policy Changes:
- Update the university’s investment policy to reflect the divestment decision and the guidelines for responsible investing.
- Continuous Monitoring:
- Continuously monitor and assess the impact of divestment on the investment portfolio and the university’s financial health. Adjust the investment strategy as needed.
- Educational Initiatives:
- Use the divestment process as an educational opportunity to raise awareness about the impacts of fossil fuels and the importance of sustainable investing.
TU’s divestment from carbon-intensive energy industries is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. It should be carried out in a manner that aligns with the university’s long-term financial goals and ethical commitments.