Low carbon futures: assessing the status of decarbonisation efforts at universities within a 2050 perspective

Abstract

Background The implementation of sustainability at universities means that they can also play a key role in the transition to a low carbon economy, and in assisting global efforts towards decarbonisation. Yet, not all of them have so far fully engaged in this area. This paper reviews the state of the art on trends in decarbonisation, and outlines the need for decarbonisation efforts at universities. It also reports on a survey aimed at ascertaining the extent to which universities in a sample of 40 countries across the various geographical regions are engaged in carbon reduction efforts, identifying the challenges faced. Results The study has shown that the literature on the topic has been evolving over time and that increasing a given university’s energy supply from renewable energy sources has been the cornerstone of university-based climate action plans. The study also indicates that even though several universities are concerned with their carbon footprint and actively seeking ways to reduce it, there are some institutional obstacles that need to be overcome. Conclusions A first conclusion which can be drawn is that efforts on decarbonisation are becoming more popular, with a special focus being placed on the use of renewable energy. Also, the study has shown that, from the range of efforts being made towards decarbonisation, many universities are setting up a team with carbon management responsibilities, have Carbon Management Policy Statements, and review them. The paper points towards some measures which may be deployed, so as to allow universities to take better advantage of the many opportunities an engagement in decarbonisation initiatives offers to them.

Toll Road Construction: The Concept of Justice and Community Peace Against Environmental Change

“…The human community does not carry out activities that change and damage the environment causing the preservation of the universe. The impact of toll road construction can increase carbon levels in the air and other environmental pollution, as explained in the article: (Chen et al, 2022); (Leal Filho et al, 2023); (Dimayuga et al, 2023).…”

Assessing climate change and health provisions among staff in higher education institutions: A preliminary investigation

“…After the pre-test, a stage in which an expert group of climate change and health researchers assessed the questionnaire and provided feedback that allowed the authors to reach a final improved revised version [ 37 , 38 ]. The survey was then disseminated via the online tool Google Forms.…”

Sustainable Development in Third Level Programs: Distilling a Pathway to a True Net-Zero Education

“…This revelation is particularly significant, as it highlights how the challenges associated with academic positions can hinder the willingness to take risks such as altering curricula and pedagogy to decarbonize higher education. Student-related issues have less impact on decarbonization initiatives in higher education institutions [119]. Overcoming these personal barriers involves addressing self-doubt, seeking support, and acquiring the necessary qualifications and knowledge to engage in decarbonization efforts within the academic sector [119].…”

“…Student-related issues have less impact on decarbonization initiatives in higher education institutions [119]. Overcoming these personal barriers involves addressing self-doubt, seeking support, and acquiring the necessary qualifications and knowledge to engage in decarbonization efforts within the academic sector [119]. The imperative for increased research aligned with decarbonization and the incorporation of decarbonization into curricula underscores the significance of tackling these personal barriers to advance decarbonization efforts in higher education.…”

“…Additionally, the readiness of the community and governance structures within universities, as well as the attitudes of campus stakeholders, can shape the effectiveness of decarbonization efforts [125]. Furthermore, assessing the status of decarbonization efforts at universities within a 2050 perspective and understanding the prevailing attitudes toward decarbonization among campus stakeholders can help in addressing societal norms in decarbonization efforts [119].…”