Net zero
Our net zero plus plan commits the University to reach net zero (all scopes) by 2040.
However, how we get there is important as early action reduces cumulative emissions and can significantly reduce our overall negative impact.
The University of Leicester is unusually ambitious as we include all scopes within our net zero target:
- Breadth
- If we cause it, we report it
- If we pay for it, we count it under net zero (if it’s in our financial statement, we include it in the net zero target).
Offset
Offsetting our carbon emissions is not yet a strategic priority whilst our focus is on reduction emissions, although we are a member of the Carbon Coalition to enable colleagues to offset relevant research activities where appropriate.
University actions
- Our initial focus will be to establish the sequestration (carbon absorption) baseline (and therefore potential) of our green space
- We are one of ten universities taking part in the pilot University and College Land for Carbon project
- An offset policy and plan will be developed in line with sector and Government guidance.
Informed by research
Net zero roadmap
Energy
Gas
Steps to meet target
- Heat decarbonisation (target decade - 2030s)
- Boiler upgrades, air source heat pumps (target decade - 2030s)
Electricity
Steps to meet target
- Behaviour change (target decade - 2030s)
- Smart buildings (target decade - 2030s)
- National grid decarbonisation (target decade - 2040s)
Renewables
Steps to meet target
- Increased investment in renewable technologies (target decade - 2030s)
- 100% renewables (target decade - 2040s)
Health and wellbeing
Adaptation
Steps to meet target
- Estate consolidation (target decade - 2030s)
- Building fabric upgrades (target decade - 2030s)
- Health and wellbeing policies (target decade - 2030s)
- Climate adaptation measures (target decade - 2040s)
Responsible consumption
Waste
Steps to meet target
- Circular economy principles (target decade - 2040s)
- Zero waste to landfill (target decade - 2040s)
- Food waste infrastructure (target decade - 2040s)
- Potential onsite composting (target decade - 2040s)
- Minimise packaging (target decade - 2040s)
Procurement
Steps to meet target
- Plant-based menus (target decade - 2020s)
- Equipment and end of life policy (target decade - 2020s)
- Supplier engagement (target decade - 2020s)
- Low carbon substitutions (target decade - 2040s)
- Suppliers to match University of Leicester net zero commitment (target decade - 2040s)
- Revised procurement emissions methodology (target decade - 2040s)
- Inset fund (target decade - 2040s)
Water
Steps to meet target
- Water management policy (target decade - 2040s)
Travel
Steps to meet target
- Reduced need to travel (target decade - 2020s)
- Emissions caps on fleet vehicles (target decade - 2020s)
- Review international travel policy and related policies (target decade - 2040s)
Behaviours
Steps to meet target
- Local environment action plans (departments) (target decade - 2040s)
- Environmental action coordinators (target decade - 2040s)
- Communication and engagement (target decade - 2040s)
- Policy updates (target decade - 2040s)
Biodiversity
Biodiversity
Steps to meet target
- Building upgrades include biodiversity measures (target decade - 2040s)
- Biodiversity net gain - continued investment in tree planting, rewilding measures and species maximisation (target decade - 2040s)
Offset
Steps to meet target
- Direct sequestration (target decade - 2030s)
- Develop in-house scheme (target decade - 2030s)
- Explore project opportunities (target decade - 2030s)
- Recognised section scheme (target decade - 2040s)
- Informal community (target decade - 2040s)
- Academic projects (target decade - 2040s)