Once again this year, the Universitat Politècnica de València has managed to significantly reduce its carbon footprint, both in absolute terms and in its relative value per person. In addition, for the third consecutive year, the UPV is positioned as the Spanish public university with the lowest carbon footprint per capita..
Scope 1+2 Emissions (tCO₂ – tCO₂e)
- 2021 → 4.162
- 2022 → 3.657
- 2023 → 3.257
Scope 1+2 Emissions per Person (tCO₂ – tCO₂e)
- 2021 → 0,107
- 2022 → 0,088
- 2023 → 0,075
The footprint currently registered and verified by MITECO includes Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. The attached graph analyzes Scope 1 emissions, which comprise direct emissions from the use of refrigerant gases, heating systems, and fuel consumption of the university’s vehicle fleet. As of 2018, Scope 2 emissions are zero due to the exclusive use of electricity from renewable sources.
The decarbonization plan for the next few years is focused on continuing to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. The university’s goal is to renovate refrigeration systems and advance in the energy transition of heating systems.
The UPV’s commitment to climate neutrality is also reflected in its actions in the emission offsets. In 2022, 0.16% of the carbon footprint of Scope 1+2 was offset, and for the first time, the triple seal ‘Calculate-Reduce-Compense’ was achieved. The offset figure has increased to 1.01 % in 2023 thanks to participation in an afforestation project in Pego (Alicante). This initiative included the planting of 248 trees and the creation of a new forest of 2,589 m², with a capacity to absorb 33 tons of CO₂, equivalent to 33 carbon credits recognized by MITECO.
More information about the UPV’s Carbon Footprint can be found on the Environment Unit’s website.