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14 A Guidebook for Sustainability Performance Measurement for Transportation Agencies Chapter 4 Understanding the Sustainability Performance Measurement Framework The sustainability performance measurement (SPM) framework was developed to address the question: What does a transportation agency need to be equipped with in order to successfully address sustainability issues through performance measurement? The SPM framework consists of three types of components, termed as fundamental components, overarching components, and auxiliary components. Figure 2 illustrates the basic components of the SPM framework. A description of the framework components follows. See the research report for a more detailed description of the SPM framework. You may also want to use the overview presentation provided (Appendix G) as you talk with colleagues, introduce the framework to your agency, and orient your working group. FUNDAMENTAL COMPONENTS Applying the framework in a step-by-step manner requires these components (described in detail in the next chapter): Step 1 â Understanding sustainability, Step 2 â Developing transportation sustainability goals, Step 3 â Developing objectives, Step 4 â Developing performance measures, Step 5 â Implementing performance measures, and Step 6 â Refining the framework and applying feedback. The fundamental components of the sustainability performance measurement framework include understanding sustainability; developing goals, objectives, and performance measures; implementing performance measures; refining the framework; and applying continuous feedback.
Understanding the Sustainability Performance Measurement Framework 15 OVERARCHING COMPONENTS Overarching components of the framework are items that need to be taken into consideration throughout the framework application process, and include aspects such as the engagement of stakeholders, partners, and external agencies. AUXILIARY COMPONENTS Auxiliary components are related but optional components that supplement the framework application process but are not central to it. These include items such as (1) developing a working definition of sustainability, (2) organizational sustainability initiatives that are independent of a transportation agencyâs functions (e.g., energy efficient buildings, recycling of office waste), and (3) organizational application of broader transportation sustainability performance measures (such as carpooling or ridesharing) specifically for the agencyâs employees. Figure 2. Simplified framework diagram.