Western Sydney University has achieved its ambitious target to be carbon neutral by 2023, cementing its reputation as one of the world's most sustainable higher education institutions.
The University has been awarded official carbon neutral certification for its business operations by Climate Active – a partnership between the Australian Government and Australian businesses focussed on driving voluntary action on climate change.
The University followed a rigorous certification process, calculating its carbon footprint, taking steps to reduce emissions, and then offsetting to achieve net-zero carbon emissions and thereby carbon neutrality.
Western Sydney University joined the United Nations-led 'Race to Zero' in 2021, pledging to fast-track its efforts towards carbon neutrality to address climate change. As a result, ambitious targets were set to become carbon neutral in 2023 and climate positive in 2029.
The University's actions to reduce emissions include switching to 100 per cent renewable electricity supply, improving building and facility energy efficiency, promoting sustainable transport options, and reducing waste generation and disposal.
The University offset its remaining emissions by investing in verified carbon projects that support social and environmental benefits, including bushfire mitigation, wind farms, AgriTech, and biodiversity both in Australia and overseas.
Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Barney Glover AO said that by taking bold steps towards a sustainable future the University can make a real difference in the fight against climate change, both locally and globally.
"Western Sydney University is incredibly proud to have reached this significant milestone in our journey to becoming climate positive by 2029. This achievement is a testament to the University's commitment to sustainability and we are pleased to lead the way in driving climate action," said Professor Glover.
"Working collaboratively with our students, staff, partners, as well as our broader communities, we are pleased to be recognised as an international leader on environmental stewardship and as an institution that is actively working to create a more sustainable future for all."
Western Sydney University was also named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact in the 2022 Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings. This prestigious annual ranking assesses universities on their commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
