As the EU transitions towards a net zero economy, universities are stepping up to play their part. However, funding is needed for initiatives such as greening ancient buildings
Europe’s universities and research organisations are going green, with some bidding to be at the forefront of Europe’s 2050 net zero ambition.
Science academies kicked off the discussions this week with a report looking at how different institutions are moving towards sustainability, a discussion which lies at the centre of the European Federation of Academies of Sciences and Humanities (ALLEA) general assembly this year.
In common with all other sectors, the report says academia needs a change in culture to achieve sustainability. Air travel to academic conferences is a major culprit, but supercomputer, buildings, electricity and supply chain emissions also contribute to high greenhouse gas emissions in many institutions.
According to a 2021 survey by the European University Association (EUA), of the 400 surveyed universities, 61% have plans for going green, another 25% are drafting them.
More information:
https://sciencebusiness.net/climate-news/news/academic-sector-makes-moves-going-green