Decarbonisation Strategy
A summary of the project we commissioned over 2023-24 which included detailed interviews, audits and analysis of the Group's assets, emissions and decarbonisation ambitions.
Net Zero Carbon
Coventry University Group actively addresses climate change and recognises the immediate and long-term threat it poses to society globally. We have clear obligations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in particular, carbon dioxide and have set challenging but necessary targets to achieve Net Zero Carbon (NZC) ahead of government mandates.
Our goal is to create a low-carbon university group that equips students with the knowledge and skills for a sustainable future.
Our targets
1
To achieve NZC by 2030 for scope 1 and 2 emissions
Our scope 1 and 2 emissions include gas, petrol and diesel, biomass, refrigerant gas and grid-supplied electricity.
Our NZC strategy involves assessing all university operations, reviewing existing buildings, technologies and future energy needs. As the university evolves, we will continue prioritising resilience and adaptability while recognising both challenges and opportunities.
2
To achieve a 30% reduction on scope 3 emissions by 2030
Scope 3 emissions include business travel, commuting, waste, water use and disposal, leased buildings and accommodation providers, and our procurement of goods and services.
Our strategy to 2030
Working with Turner & Townsend we have produced a full route map of how we will achieve NZC by 2030. This has considered all emission sources, establishes a baseline for scope 1 and 2 emissions and outlines strategies for measuring and reducing scope 3 emissions. It also recognises the importance of financial commitment, leadership and awareness of reducing carbon emissions amongst our staff, students, suppliers and wider partners.
Read our Sustainable Development Strategy.
Our emissions
Each building, including our UK and international campuses, has been surveyed individually. This allows us to prioritise interventions swiftly. We recognise that emissions from different sources vary significantly and must be addressed individually. Our reporting aligns with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, and we provide annual data through both HESA’s estates management reporting and our Annual Sustainable Development report.
Read our GHG Emission Inventory 2022/2023.
Heat
Gas supplied form the grid is harder to decarbonize when compared to electricity.
With most heating in the UK relying on gas boilers, addressing heat-related carbon emissions is critical.
Electricity
The increase in renewable energy feeding into the grid makes it possible to lower emissions from electricity supplies significantly.
Other sources
- Emission sources
Emissions also arise from the use of air conditioning units, from travel to and from the university, from processing waste, the goods we buy and water we use. - Supply chain emissions
Supply chain emissions significantly contribute to our carbon footprint. We’re collaborating with suppliers to enhance accuracy and confidence in our reporting.
To achieve the necessary carbon reductions we’ll focus on four key strategies:
1
Efficient buildings
Optimise heating controls, space utilization and insulation in our existing structures.
2
Renewable and low carbon energy
Install more solar arrays on campus and explore district heating options.
3
Grid decarbonisation
Prioritise renewable energy sources.
4
Smart procurement
Seek alternative supplies for direct purchase of off-site renewable energy.
