CUHK Carbon Neutral 2038
As a socially responsible university, CUHK upholds the principle of sustainable development and has been undertaking various measures to reduce carbon emissions in its daily operations.
In view of the unprecedented threat of climate crisis to the global community and to align with the pledges of mainland China and Hong Kong to advance to net zero carbon emissions by 2060 and 2050 respectively, CUHK is committed in its Strategic Plan 2021–2025 (‘CUHK 2025’) to achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. We are the first among local universities to pledge to become carbon neutral.
Actions to achieve the target
A Task Force on Carbon Neutrality was established under the Committee on Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development on 1 November 2021 to steer the work on carbon neutrality.
Solar on Campus was launched to maximize renewable energy generation on campus and generate revenue through the Feed-in Tariff scheme, supporting the University’s decarbonization initiatives.
Two consultancy studies which support the development of a Carbon Neutrality Action Plan and further expansion of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on campus are being undertaken.
Green Mobility for Blue Sky aims to improve the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure on campus to prepare for the transition to EVs by 2035. The initiative also aims to contribute to creating a low-carbon campus that aligns with the University’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038.
Ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions
- Energy-efficient installations
Replacing T5 fluorescent lamps or the conventional lamps and the induction street lamps with more efficient LEDs
- Adoption of renewable energy on campus
Installation of solar PV systems on the building rooftops to generate renewable energy
- Green buildings
Achievement of the highest green building certification for all new buildings
- Green mobility
Provision of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support the use of EVs
- Waste reduction
Trial of HKPC-developed Food TranSmarter to generate clean energy and divert waste from landfills
- Awareness, education, policies, incentives and outreach
Engaging the university community and beyond in advancing sustainable development