The University of Chicago is targeting deeper cuts in its greenhouse gas emissions, setting a goal of a 50% reduction across University operations by 2030.
Previously, the University planned on a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2025, and it is ahead of schedule to reach that target. The more ambitious goal is part of ongoing work across the University to address sustainability and confront pressing environmental challenges, while improving efficiency and conserving the University’s financial resources. The University’s efforts encompass research, education, student involvement, and campus operations and include University research institutes, Argonne National Laboratory and the Marine Biological Laboratory.
“The University of Chicago has taken a focused, data-driven approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, putting the University ahead of schedule to meet its 2025 goal. Given the early success, UChicago is prepared to take on more aggressive targets to advance the sustainability of University operations,” said Alicia Berg, assistant vice president of campus planning + sustainability with Facilities Services at UChicago. “We will also continue to look for ways to take these targets even further as technology and other mechanisms evolve.”
The University’s target is now based on overall emissions rather than based on emissions per square foot of building space. The University is also increasing access to data on energy use in campus operations to allow members of the UChicago community to provide ideas and input on how to advance sustainability efforts.
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In addition, faculty across disciplines are conducting research related to energy efficiency and conservation. For instance, faculty and researchers at the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC) produce data-driven research that advances society’s understanding of the global energy challenge and translates research insights with real-world impact.
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