UNS Carbon Reduction Target (Scope 1 & 2) & Net-Zero Commitment (Aligned with GHG Protocol)

Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) has formally established a long-term carbon reduction target aligned with global climate goals, national commitments, and the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol classification framework. The university is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, explicitly covering Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (purchased electricity emissions), with partial inclusion of Scope 3 (indirect emissions) as part of its extended carbon management strategy.

This commitment strengthens UNS’s alignment with Indonesia’s national roadmap to reduce emissions by 31.89% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions, while also reflecting international best practices in carbon accounting and reporting. By setting a 2050 net-zero target, UNS demonstrates an accelerated timeline beyond national targets and positions itself within the highest ambition category for global higher education institutions.

To ensure measurable, systematic progress toward this target, UNS has implemented an institution-wide carbon management system structured according to the GHG Protocol scopes, integrating policies, infrastructure, operations, and behavioral change initiatives.

For Scope 1 emissions, UNS reduces direct emissions from stationary and mobile combustion through the adoption of low-emission and zero-emission transportation, including electric vehicles and electric bicycles, as well as the implementation of an Emission-Free Day policy under Rector’s Decree No. 87/UN27/HM.06.00/2023, which restricts fossil-fuel vehicles on campus twice a month. Additional measures include using biodiesel as a renewable alternative fuel and implementing green office practices to minimize fuel and resource consumption.

For Scope 2 emissions, UNS focuses on reducing emissions from purchased electricity through the expansion of renewable energy generation, particularly solar photovoltaic systems installed across campus buildings, as well as the deployment of energy-efficient technologies such as low-energy air conditioning systems and automated lighting controls. These initiatives significantly reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based electricity and improve overall energy efficiency.

For Scope 3 emissions, UNS implements a wide range of indirect-emission reduction strategies, including waste segregation programs, composting to reduce methane emissions, hazardous-waste treatment through wastewater management systems (IPAL), and the operation of a campus waste bank to promote recycling and circular-economy practices. In addition, digital transformation initiatives such as the SPADA UNS e-learning platform and the adoption of hybrid and virtual meetings help reduce commuting and business travel emissions.

These initiatives are further supported by complementary sustainability initiatives, including green building features (e.g., vertical gardens and automated irrigation systems), renewable backup energy systems, lithium battery charging infrastructure, and campus-wide environmental awareness programs. UNS also integrates research and innovation into its decarbonization pathway, including the development of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) and advanced energy storage technologies through its Center of Excellence for Lithium Battery Technology.

Through this comprehensive, policy-driven, and measurable approach, UNS ensures that its carbon reduction target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions is not only clearly defined but also supported by concrete implementation across all emission scopes. This demonstrates a robust and institution-wide commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045, fully aligned with the GHG Protocol framework and global sustainability standards.