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Sustainability Sustainability
  1. Sustainability
  2. Focus Areas
  3. Climate Action

rooftop solar panels

Climate Action: Decarbonization

University of California Commitment

In recognition of the need for a coordinated response to the climate crisis, the University of California updated its Sustainable Practices Policy in July 2023 with stronger climate action goals that prioritize direct emission reductions, limit the use of carbon offsets, and align UC’s climate goals with State goals. To support these goals, UC San Diego conducted a decarbonization study, funded by the State of California, to outline the feasibility of different strategies emissions reductions.

UC Policy Goals

  • Total Emissions: Reduce total emissions (scope 1, 2, and 3) at least 90% by 2045 without relying on carbon offsets
  • Scope 1 Emissions: Set reduction targets for 2030, 2035 and 2040 by January 1, 2025
  • Scope 2 Emissions: Purchase 100% clean electricity beginning in 2025
  • Scope 3 Emissions: Set scope 3 emissions reduction targets for business travel, commuting, and solid waste disposal in alignment with the State of California’s goals
  • Implementation Plan: Each UC location will prepare an updated climate action plan prior to 2026.

scope diagram

Decarbonization Study

The study is part of our continuous efforts towards decarbonization and will continue to evolve with ongoing engagement from our community, incorporation of new technologies, and the availability of green energy in the market. In pursuit of decarbonization goals, the primary focus of the study provides a detailed analysis associated with reducing Scope 1 emission from energy systems with the transitions away from fossil fuels. The study emphasizes the importance of a flexible, resilient, reliable, and secure energy distribution system to support continuous campus operations. Additionally, the study explores opportunities to leverage the campus as a living laboratory and identifies strategies for integrating equity, diversity, and justice into decarbonization efforts.

View the Decarbonization Study (English):

Vea el Estudio de Descarbonización (Español):

Implementation Plan timeline graphic

Decarbonization Study Timeline. Note: UCOP is the University of California Office of the President.

Outreach and Engagement

  • Climate and Sustainability Town Halls: Virtual town halls provide an opportunity for information sharing and community engagement on campus climate and sustainability projects and initiatives.
  • Climate Conversations: Climate Conversations is a monthly series held during the academic year. These in-person events create space for ongoing dialogue with the campus community around current climate and sustainability topics.

Decarbonization Study Team

Campus Lead: Utilities and Sustainability

Campus Sponsors: Academic Affairs; Advancement; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion; Health Sciences; Marine Sciences; Office of Chief Financial Officer; Operations Management and Capital Programs; Research and Innovation; Student Affairs

Faculty Partners: Synthesis Program, Seventh College

Consultants: Salas O’Brien, Rincon, JLL

Questions?

Contact sustain@ucsd.edu.