As a centre of innovation in climate science and research, Bristol leads globally in understanding the implications of the climate crisis.
Scientific expertise from across the University has played an important part in deciding ambitions for the next five years and beyond which includes an adjustment of net zero goals across all scopes (direct, indirect and supply chain emissions).
In 2015 the University set itself the challenging goal of achieving net zero emissions from its buildings by 2030. Although these emissions are now less than half what they were in the baseline year of 2005/06, climate science says this is not enough.
The more comprehensive and integrated approach outlined in the University Climate Action Plan will help the institution proceed at pace in reducing emissions from buildings and energy use by 30% by 2030 and to net zero by 2042 for Scope 1, and by 70% by 2030 to net zero by 2042 for Scope 2.
The University is also introducing an ambitious new target for emissions related to its value/supply chain (Scope 3) to reduce emissions by 42% by 2030 and to net zero by 2050.
The University has also been recognised for its sustainability commitments, most recently in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ratings 2026, coming 56th overall and joint seventh in the UK for its work in making the world a healthier, greener and better place.
Since 2015, the University, reported carbon emissions have fallen by just over half against the 2005/06 baseline. This is mainly due to the UK electricity grid becoming much lower carbon, alongside a decision to buy more renewable electricity through a long-term power purchase agreement. Emissions have also been cut by electrifying buildings, such as Beacon House in Clifton and the new Blagdon Building at its Langford Campus, which replace older gas-heated spaces.
Positive actions such as installing solar panels and better heating controls, as well as switching off gas-fuelled energy systems, mean the University now uses 75% less oil and 26% less gas than 20 years ago.
Sustainability has been a guiding principle throughout the building of the new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus which opens in September. The main Sloane Robinson Building has 750 solar panels on the roof and is connected to a district heating network to reduce energy demand and carbon emissions. Lower-carbon construction methods, including the use of eco-concrete, have also been adopted.
Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol, said: “The recent heatwaves and associated devastating fires in Europe are a reminder that climate change is here and that we need to act now if we are to make a difference. The University of Bristol has a long-standing tradition of supporting sustainability research, education and engagement but there is much more to do.
“Our University Climate Action Plan sets a clear direction for the whole institution. We know that becoming more sustainable is not straight-forward for a sizeable and globally engaged University like ours. We carry out world-leading research that requires complex infrastructure. We care for a significant estate of historic buildings that was not designed with today’s environmental challenges in mind. Achieving our goals won’t be easy but it is essential for our long-term success.”
“The Plan reflects our belief that collaboration is the foundation of progress: It has been shaped by the expertise, research, and experiences of staff and students from across the University, all of whom I would like to thank for their input. It will be delivered by working in partnership with our city, our region and our international partners because we all have a role to play in achieving our collective ambition of a more sustainable, resilient future for ourselves and our planet.”