Appalachian State University
IN-4: Innovation 4

Given the immense potential for a large environmental footprint from educational programs that include travel and our university's commitment to sustainability, Appalachian’s Outdoor Programs and the Appalachian and the Community Together (ACT) have created carbon neutrality programs for student expeditions. Student Outdoor Learning Expeditions (SOLEs), which are led by Outdoor Programs, and Alternative Fall and Spring Break trips, which are organized through ACT, work to offset carbon emissions from all activities associated with the trip, not just travel. The carbon calculator takes into account all emissions from group travel and related activities such as meals, accommodations, and activities like sea kayaking or hiking. As an educational tool, the calculator is designed to quantify carbon emissions and offer methods for offset. Offsetting emissions has become business as usual, just like paying for food, lodging, etc. Appalachian seeks to educate students about the environmental impacts of traveling. Students are encouraged to develop and implement solutions to minimize or offset those impacts and educate others. Program leaders use this tool to create awareness, to offer alternatives to carbon emitting activities, and to provide a sustainability component to the learning outcomes of their trip. Planting trees locally is one way that the program helps to offset carbon emissions, furthering the educational value, and benefiting the community. Trees were planted Elk Knob State Park, working in coordination with the park officials to identify the most appropriate tree species for the climate zone and for offsetting. Trees benefit the region’s air quality and hold aesthetic value to our community. Carbon neutral student trips are an initiative of the Office of International Education and Development, Departments of Recreation Management and Interdisciplinary Studies, Appalachian and the Community Together, a division of Student Programs and the Office of Sustainability.

Appalachian Today, 'Alternative Fall Break trips strive for carbon neutrality' URL: http://today.appstate.edu/alternative-fall-break/ The Appalachian, 'ASB goes carbon neutral,' URL: http://theappalachianonline.com/campus/7091-asb-goes-carbon-neutral Related links: Appalachian State University seeks carbon neutrality in 2050, URL: http://sustain.appstate.edu/initiatives/campus-initiatives/climate-neutrality