University of Reading – Carbon Management Plan

The University of Reading set out its first Carbon Management Plan in 2011, with the aim of delivering an ambitious 35% cut in its carbon emissions by 2016.  After meeting this initial target successfully, the University’s Executive Board signed off further targets of 45% reduction by 2021 and 50% by 2026, together with a 35% reduction target for water usage.  The University has invested almost £6 million in energy and water efficiency initiatives in the last 7 years, delivering cumulative financial savings of over £31 million in utilities related costs, compared to a ‘business as usual’ scenario. 

By the end of 2017/18, it had reached a 39% reduction in its carbon emissions and a 29% reduction in its water usage; well on the way to delivering its latest sustainability targets.  This has come at a time of recent growth for the University, and over a period when energy unit prices have risen by approximately 50%.  Managing the risk of growing utilities costs has therefore been a key focus at the University of Reading, and it is proud to demonstrate leadership in delivering both financial as well as environmental sustainability in the higher education sector.