Action for net zero at Canadian universities: Climate survey report

Canada’s universities have long been leaders in sustainability and are committed to helping the country achieve its climate targets. Researchers within these institutions are actively monitoring the impacts of climate change on various systems and infrastructure, while also developing new clean technologies and generating projections to assist communities in preparing for the anticipated rise in temperatures and an increase in extreme weather events.

In addition to innovative climate research and preparing students with the skills they need to succeed in a greener economy, they are also engaged in actively mitigating the impacts of climate change within their own operations. To better understand their climate mitigation commitments and progress, Universities Canada and CAUBO partnered to conduct a member survey on their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions measurement and reporting practices, institutional reduction targets and infrastructure needs. The survey was circulated between May and July 2023 and generated a response rate of 74% which reflects 72 of Universities Canada’s 97 members.

The survey found that Canadian universities are actively working to reduce their climate footprint by measuring their greenhouse gas emissions, setting reduction targets and publicly reporting on their progress. However, they face significant challenges due to resource constraints, data collection complexities and a lack of a standard reporting frameworks for the sector.

Download the full report.