The Foreign Service Journal, April 2014

THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | APRIL 2014 31 step, and the State Depart- ment can lead by example in these areas. Overseas, U.S. embassies can showcase what can be achieved in any local environment. What Is the League? The League of Green Embassies started as an online best practices sharing portal at Embassy Stock- holm in 2007. It has grown into a coalition of more than 100 U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide. Now based at Embassy Helsinki, the League seeks to transform conversations, ideas and good intentions into concrete environmental action and results that make our embassies, host coun- tries and the world a better place to live. Climate change is a real problem that demands real solu- tions—whether through materials, new technologies or design excellence. The challenges we face in mitigating global climate change present an opportunity for U.S. leadership. The League exercises this leadership on a local scale by encouraging proj- ects that are post-selected and post-implemented. Led by the ambassador, each embassy’s green teamworks to implement real-world sustain- able practices. The teams are ad hoc groups of individuals from various sections of the embassy who are interested in sustainability. They volunteer their time to meet, discuss and work to implement sustainability projects at their post. The most successful initiatives are results of targeted research and methodical planning. Solar power is a popular and proven technology, but it may not be the best use of finan- cial resources for all missions. Recycling programs are easy to implement, but a campaign to reduce consumption may have more impact if local recycling facilities are undeveloped. This type of critical thinking is important when selecting goals and targets for sustainability efforts. Green teams select projects offering the greatest return on investment through location analysis, baselining and setting clear goals. Planning for Sustainability Many of the League’s most successful projects capitalize on a mission’s unique environ- ment. Here’s what green teams should consider. What resources are available to the mission? What resources does the embassy consume that have a high environmental impact? In areas where electricity generation relies heavily on fossil fuels, embassies may choose to prioritize clean electric generation technologies or energy efficiency. Is local drink- ing water high quality? Implement a campaign to encourage Embassy green teams are ad hoc groups of individuals from various sections of the embassy who are interested in sustainability. Courtesy of Embassy Helsinki