Thursday 10 March 2022

University of Exeter sets 2030 net zero target

The University of Exeter has brought its net zero target forward to 2030.

Previously setting an aim for reaching the milestone by 2050 in 2019, the revised target has been made due to ‘input from students and staff’, according to the University.

The refreshed target includes all scopes of emissions, with Scope 3 emissions currently accounting for 72% of its total.

The University has stated it will stop unnecessary purchases, reduce air travel and use low-emission alternatives for activities where that is possible.

Professor Janice Kay, University's Environment and Climate Emergency Board, said: “By accelerating our targets to net zero across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2030, we place ourselves amongst a handful of institutions with truly ambitious targets.

“There has been significant pressure from students and staff to accelerate our carbon targets, to tackle the climate crisis. We have listened to those voices and have created a plan to reach this challenging goal.

“To achieve this, everyone must play their part as individuals, teams and colleges, through action in our offices, labs, buildings, working practices, through learning opportunities and even the way we travel to work and study.”