[♻️ UTBM charts a course…toward low carbon]
What does a university’s carbon footprint look like? The answer in pictures and numbers
UTBM is charting a course toward a cleaner, more sustainable planet with the publication a few weeks ago of its Master Plan for Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility.
So, what better way to move forward than to take stock—specifically, our greenhouse gas emissions report, which we’re presenting to you along with valuable metrics for the year 2023. This report serves as a guide for implementing initiatives such as building renovations, the mobility plan, updates to our procurement policy, and, of course, energy efficiency.
Let’s not forget that our efforts also focus on supporting a policy that promotes diversity, equity, and well-being within the institution.
In the construction sector: Our emissions are equivalent to those generated by the construction of 328 four-bedroom apartments in France. In the transportation sector: Our emissions are also equivalent to 4,050 round-trip flights between Paris and New York in economy class.This category covers investments whose expenditures are spread over several years. It includes the construction or major renovation of buildings, as well as the purchase of equipment (IT hardware, research equipment, etc.). Paradoxically, it is sometimes necessary to spend more here in order to reduce spending elsewhere (for example, insulating a building to lower its energy consumption). In addition to the significant renovations carried out in recent years, it is also worth noting that the DSIN now manages its IT infrastructure with a strategy of ensuring equipment remains in service for seven years.This budget line item covers the purchase of supplies necessary for the UTBM’s day-to-day operations, provided they are not already accounted for elsewhere (such as energy). A responsible procurement policy is currently being finalized. However, certain environmental and social criteria have already been incorporated into our public procurement processes for several years, allowing us, for example, to prioritize local supply chains, sustainable practices, and job placement programs.The mobility plan will be published in 2025, but a number of recommendations have already been made regarding research trips: prioritize public transportation, and ensure that research trips are prioritized for early-career researchers who do not yet have established networks. On its website, UTBM provides information to encourage sustainable transportation. Erasmus grants are also available to help students travel without flying as part of Erasmus exchange programs.Focus on reducing our carbon footprint for gas and electricity
– 36% reduction over 10 years through energy-efficient building renovations
– Through optimization of heating settings
– Through the replacement of heating equipment and optimization of its performanceSignificant efforts have already been made to reduce this category, but they must continue (increasing waste sorting, eliminating disposable cups, etc.). Since 2010, paper consumption has been reduced by 50%.
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