Beyond academics, TU has a robust commitment to sustainability. Various sustainability projects have been accomplished while others are being implemented and planned across the institution. TU is also a member of Sustainable Tulsa and the School of Energy Economics, Policy & Commerce prepared that organization’s Scor3card assessment in 2019, which is an online sustainability tracking and assessment tool for organizations that want to track and improve their sustainability plans.
One of the most vivid of TU’s sustainability projects is the solar power installation at the Michael D. Case Tennis Center. In 2016, 936 polycrystalline photovoltaic panels – half facing east and half facing west – were installed on the building’s roof. This 300-kilowatt system is owned by PSO and leased by TU, and the electricity it generates powers the Case Center. “That is not only a sustainable form of power but also nets some cost savings that represent financial sustainability for the university,” Seng said. “These days, the two forms of sustainability go hand in hand.”
Promoting a public pledge toward 100% renewable energy beyond the university involves a comprehensive communication and engagement strategy. Here are steps a university can take to promote this pledge to the broader community:
- Launch a Website or Online Platform:
- Create a dedicated website or online platform that provides information about the pledge, its goals, and the benefits of transitioning to renewable energy. Offer resources, case studies, and success stories to educate and inspire.
- Engage in Social Media Campaigns:
- Use social media platforms to raise awareness of the pledge. Share informative posts, infographics, videos, and testimonials to attract attention and engage the community.
- Hold Informational Meetings and Webinars:
- Host meetings or webinars open to the public to explain the pledge, answer questions, and address concerns. Invite experts and guest speakers to provide valuable insights.
- Community Outreach Events:
- Organize community events, workshops, and expos that focus on renewable energy and its benefits. These events can include presentations, demonstrations, and hands-on activities.
- Partnerships and Alliances:
- Collaborate with local environmental organizations, government agencies, businesses, and community groups that support renewable energy. These partnerships can broaden your campaign’s reach.
- Petition Drives:
- Launch an online petition and encourage community members to sign in support of the 100% renewable energy pledge. Collect signatures both online and at community events.
- Engage with Local Government:
- Advocate for renewable energy policies and partnerships with local government bodies. Encourage the adoption of renewable energy goals and incentives.
- Media Engagement:
- Create press releases and reach out to local media outlets to cover your campaign. Engage with journalists to share your story and promote the pledge.
- Celebrate Success Stories:
- Showcase local businesses, organizations, or individuals who have successfully transitioned to renewable energy. Highlight their achievements as examples of the benefits of clean energy.
- Educational Programs:
- Develop and deliver educational programs in schools and community centers, teaching residents about renewable energy and the positive impact it can have.
- Regular Progress Updates:
- Keep the community informed about the progress toward 100% renewable energy. Provide regular updates on the university’s own efforts and any milestones achieved.
- Engage Local Businesses:
- Encourage local businesses to join the pledge and make commitments to renewable energy. Showcase these businesses as environmentally responsible partners.
- Celebrate Achievements:
- Recognize and celebrate achievements, milestones, and the growing number of pledges. Host events or ceremonies to mark the progress made.
By implementing these strategies and fostering a sense of community involvement, TU can successfully promote a public pledge toward 100% renewable energy beyond its campus, engaging and inspiring the broader community to commit to clean energy.