Solve complex problems by analyzing current practices, determining benefits of and barriers to sustainable alternatives.
Learning Activity
- Students will complete the Environmental Council’s Project Initiation Form
This document was developed by the UNE Environmental Council (EC) to facilitate the planning, approval and implementation of environmental projects at the University of New England.
The project initiation form is designed to ensure a sequential and progressive process of support for the proposed project. Providing web links for supplemental information is encouraged.
Project Description: Provide one paragraph outlining the project description. This should be written specifically so that a third party, and/or a non-UNE person can understand the overall intent of the project.
Objectives and Goals: This should be S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound).
Stakeholders: List all groups or individuals that have an interest in or are impacted by the project.
Justification: Clearly state how and why the project is consistent with and supportive of the mission of the University, and the EC’s mission and priorities. The justification should summarize potential costs/benefit of the economic, ecological and/or educational effects of the project. The summary items may be quantitative or qualitative in nature.
Similar or existing projects at UNE or other institutions: List any related, similar or existing projects at UNE or other institutions. It is important to list these from a historical standpoint regardless of whether they were successes or failures. Please include links to external case studies, where available.
Project Location: Indicate the building(s), campus(s) or other locations to clarify the scope and impact of the proposed project. Also indicate if the project is a pilot project and if the intent is to expand it in the future.
Budgetary Estimates: Indicate all related revenue and expenses, as well as possible funding sources.
Schedule: Indicate by month each phase of the project. Minimally, the schedule should indicate the expected start and end of the project design/development, project implementation, project assessment, project refinement, and/or next phase.
Assessment of Effectiveness: Describe methods of assessment to ensure the project 1) achieves the goals and objects as outlined, and 2) can be independently verified using recognized non-subjective methods.
Method of Assessment
- Project Initiation Form will be reviewed by the Assistant Director of Sustainability and feedback provided through rubric, linked below.
- Acceptable Project Initiation Forms may be forwarded by the student and/or Assistant Director of Sustainability to the Environmental Council for endorsement.
- Acceptable Project Initiative Forms will be included in the ePortfolio for Competency #4.
