The University of Johannesburg (UJ) has articulated a clear commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by the year 2050. This objective is outlined in the UJ Energy, Resource, Waste, and Sustainability (ERWSus) Plan and Policy, which serves as a strategic framework guiding the university’s sustainability initiatives. The overarching aim of this energy programme is to position UJ as a net-zero carbon institution by mid-century. 

In pursuit of this goal, UJ has undertaken a comprehensive approach to monitor and reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The university’s carbon footprint analysis for 2022, based on actual energy consumption, reported approximately 44,986 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. This figure represents a 17.76% increase compared to the 38,196 tonnes recorded in 2021, primarily due to the resumption of regular campus activities following COVID-19-related disruptions. Notably, despite this increase, there has been a significant reduction of 25.28% in carbon emissions from 2019 to 2022, underscoring UJ’s ongoing efforts to minimise its environmental impact. 

To ensure accurate and transparent reporting, UJ adheres to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) G4 Sustainability Reporting Guidelines. This methodology facilitates a comprehensive review of environmental impacts, including areas that may be overlooked in traditional sustainability reporting, such as excessive paper usage. The adoption of these guidelines reflects UJ’s dedication to maintaining high standards in environmental accountability and continuous improvement in its sustainability practices. 

While the university’s current reporting framework primarily focuses on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions—direct emissions from owned or controlled sources and indirect emissions from purchased electricity, respectively—there is an acknowledgment of the importance of Scope 3 emissions, which encompass other indirect emissions occurring in the value chain. UJ’s commitment to expanding its reporting boundaries indicates a proactive approach to comprehensively addressing all facets of its carbon footprint.

In summary, the University of Johannesburg is steadfast in its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Through strategic planning, rigorous monitoring, and adherence to established reporting standards, UJ is actively advancing towards its sustainability objectives, thereby contributing to broader global efforts to combat climate change.

Net Zero Achievement Commitment

Refer to page 75 (labelled as page 74) of the UJ Annual Report 2023:

“The present overall objective of the UJ energy programme is to support UJ to achieve a net zero carbon generation position by 2050.”