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Transformational change is required to limit climate change to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as agreed in the Paris Climate Agreement. Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions to zero as soon as possible is essential, but this effort alone is no longer enough to limit temperature increases to globally agreed levels. As a society, we will also need to implement approaches and technologies that sequester greenhouse gases from the atmosphere for the long term.
ANU has announced the Below Zero Initiative, which aims to transition ANU from being part of the problem to becoming part of the solution - from a source of greenhouse gases (GHG) to a sink for atmospheric carbon dioxide. The goal is for ANU to achieve below zero emissions by 2030 for energy, waste, work travel and direct on-campus greenhouse gas emissions. Our approach integrates practical emission-reductions with research and teaching activities at ANU. We aim to use our expertise to drive innovation in this vital sector.
ANU is one of the first universities in the world to adopt such ambitious targets including a below zero emissions goal. As Australia's national university, we are aiming to promote innovation, engage the community and provide leadership to other organisations in Australia and around the world.
This three-pronged approach forms the ANU Below Zero Initiative:
- On the ground emissions reduction and carbon removal
- World-leading climate and energy research and teaching
- Community engagement as the national university
