Our Progress
Reporting on our sustainability journey is environmentally responsible and enables the University to communicate "best" practice, projects and performance.
Carbon emissions inventory (C02e tonnes)
Data Note: Estimations and averages have been used where actual data is currently unavailable.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct emissions Scope 1 – Natural gas, transport fuels, stationary fuels and refrigerants. Agricultural emissions added in 2022. |
3,976 | 4,076 | 3,900 | 3,795 | 6,018 | 6,992 |
| Direct emissions Scope 2 – Purchased electricity. |
29,428 | 27,702 | 22,406 | 18,562 | 14,116 | 12,952 |
| Indirect emissions Scope 3 – Waste, water, transmission and distribution losses from purchased utilities, staff commuting, food and catering services, taxi and ride share services, postage, couriers and freight and construction. |
48,870 | 46,900 | 26,064 | 17,720 | 18,871 | 21,310 |
| Total* | 83,274 | 78,679 | 54,370 | 40,077 | 39,004 | 41,254 |
The University’s 2023 carbon account equals 41,254 tonnes CO2-e, a 6% increase from the previous calendar year. This increase, particularly in scope 3 emissions, represents an increase in post-Covid activity on campus and staff travel. The University decreased its energy consumption during 2023 by 5% (from 2022) despite the growth in campus activity and continuing intensification of building stock.
*Please note: emission factors subject to change to improve the accuracy of the inventory. The University of Adelaide uses the National Greenhouse Account Factors and Climate Active tools and technical guidance published by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
Track our progress
See how we are tracking with real-time data.
Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS)
The University of Adelaide will issue a biennial submission to STARS, documenting our sustainability progress across academia, engagement, operations, planning and administration, innovation and leadership.
For further information about our sustainability projects, initiatives and activities contact sustainability@adelaide.edu.au.
Previous strategies and results
Find out more about our previous sustainability strategies and how we measured up to our targets.