13.4.1

Commitment to a Carbon-Neutral University by 2037

1. Purpose

This Policy sets forth the University of Thessaly’s formal commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral university by the year 2037. It establishes the institutional framework for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across all operations through emission reduction, renewable energy adoption, and carbon offset initiatives.

2. Scope

This Policy applies to all University campuses, buildings, and facilities, including academic operations, administration, student housing, and transportation. It extends to the University’s partnerships, procurement chains, and affiliated institutions.

3. Legal and Institutional Context

This Policy aligns with: Law 4936/2022 (National Climate Law of Greece); EU Climate Law (Regulation (EU) 2021/1119); European Green Deal (2019–2021); Law 4819/2021 (Circular Economy); Paris Agreement (2015); and UN SDGs 7, 11, 12, 13.

4. Policy Statement

The University of Thessaly formally commits to achieving carbon neutrality by 2037.
2. The commitment includes a phased strategy for reducing direct (Scope 1), indirect (Scope 2), and supply-chain-related (Scope 3) emissions.
3. The University will conduct annual GHG inventories, implement energy efficiency upgrades, increase renewable energy use, promote sustainable mobility, adopt circular economy practices, and offset residual emissions.
4. A Carbon Neutrality Roadmap (2025–2037) will outline milestones and performance indicators.
5. Annual Sustainability Reports will disclose progress.
6. Climate neutrality will be integrated into education, research, and community engagement.
7. Partnerships with local authorities, industry, and NGOs will support implementation.

5. Implementation and Responsibilities

– The Rector oversees implementation.
– The Sustainability Committee coordinates the Roadmap.
– The Technical Services Department manages energy systems and audits.
– Departments of Environmental Engineering and Planning provide research and monitoring.
– Each faculty appoints a Sustainability Liaison to track progress.

6. Monitoring and Review

The Policy will be reviewed every two (2) years. Indicators include total GHG emissions (tCO₂e), renewable energy share, energy use per capita, and carbon offsets achieved.

7. Related Documents / References

Law 4936/2022; EU Climate Law (Regulation (EU) 2021/1119); European Green Deal; Law 4819/2021; Paris Agreement (2015); UN SDGs 7, 11, 12, 13.