Aarhus University

Pathway pledges

Aarhus University's biggest contribution to the fight against climate change is generating knowledge and creating the foundation for new solutions through our degree programmes and research. But as a large institution and a daily workplace for thousands of students and employees, the university also has a responsibility to reduce its climate footprint and promote the climate-friendly development of its operations. For these reasons, Aarhus University has adopted an ambitious climate strategy that commits the university to a significant reduction in carbon emissions from operations. The goal for 2025 is to reduce the university’s CO2 emissions by 35% against a 2018 baseline, and the goal for 2030 is to reduce the university’s C02 emissions by 57% against a 2018 baseline. These ambitious goals live up to the Paris Agreement and the Danish government’s goal of reducing carbon emissions by 70% in 2030 against a 1990 baseline and work towards achieving climate neutrality in 2040. 

Energy

Implement an Energy Management System within 10 years and set a related energy productivity target

We are currently reviewing our energy management for optimization.

Status date: Completed (11/07/2022)

Data source: https://medarbejdere.au.dk/en/sustainability/greenhouse-gas-emissions-report

GHG Emissions

Have a supplier/customer engagement target for GHG emissions disclosure

We are hoping to work with other universities across EU for a comprehensive emission inventorying system and GHG management ideas.

Status date: Completed (11/07/2022)

Data source: https://medarbejdere.au.dk/en/sustainability/greenhouse-gas-emissions-report

Have an absolute/intensity emissions reduction target (scope 1+2) with a 5-15 years’ time frame and a 2.1% year-on-year reduction at a minimum

AU will reduce its emissions by 70% in 2030 relative to 1990 to be in line with the Paris Agreement, the Danish Climate Law (70% reduction) and the EU emission reduction target of 55%. 

Status date: Completed (11/07/2022)

Data source: https://medarbejdere.au.dk/en/sustainability/au-climate-strategy-2020-2025