Universities responding to pressure to deliver on decarbonisation commitments

As the pressure increases on educational institutions to reduce their carbon emissions, universities have found themselves receiving criticism for not achieving goals set by the sector to reduce carbon emissions by 46% between 2005 and 2020. Research suggests 59% of UK universities have failed to meet this industry target.

The data was utilised by People and Planet for their carbon reduction rankings. People and Planet’s University League Manager, Jack Ruane, remarked the findings were: “disappointing” and went on to comment, “This highlights the importance of holding the sector accountable via short-term assessments of actual reductions in carbon emissions, rather than celebrating net zero target-setting, which are often vague on how offsetting will be achieved.”

Despite data suggesting Russell Group universities have fared better in reducing their carbon emissions in the past year, concerns remain following the report that indicates only a third of all universities have committed to fully eradicating all fossil fuel investments.

Laura Clayson, People and Planet’s Climate Justice Campaigns Manager explained: “Severing investment ties with the fossil fuel industry is an important first step for universities to act upon their responsibility to communities on the frontlines of the climate crisis and fossil fuel extraction impacts. We hope to see a sharp increase in policy exclusions in next year’s league in line with this.”

Universities have a key part to play in developing the next generation of climate-positive innovators and leaders, especially if they witness a climate strategy backed-up by demonstrable actions. Third party organisations have a part to play - Zest, for example, is engaging with several universities to make significant investments in EV charging facilities across their estates.