Net zero carbon
In partnership with students and staff, SETU will cultivate a culture of climate action, actively reduce its carbon footprint, and develop its campuses as living laboratories for green and sustainable technologies and solutions.
Climate Targets and commitments
SETU is committed to energy efficiency and sustainability. The university recognises the significant challenge of achieving the step change needed to meet national emissions targets and will reduce energy-related CO2 emissions from the 2016–2018 average baseline to meet its 2030 target.
Energy Awareness
At SETU we work with our student body, staff and wider community, supporting them to be active citizens for climate action and to take responsible action to achieve change. Activities and training include Climate Leadership and Green Procurement Training, Awareness days such as Green/Energy Days and Climate and Biodiversity Week and SDG Awareness.
Energy and Our Buildings
SETU will ensure the efficient use of all energy across all campuses, will reduce carbon emissions and optimise energy efficiency to mitigate the impact of climate change and to preserve natural resources.
Our Sustainable Infrastructure
Supported by DFHERIS, DECC, SEAI and the HEA, the pathfinder programme has resulted in deep energy retrofits of both the Business School on the SETU Cork road campus and the Burrin Building on the Kilkenny road campus. Buildings now boast improved thermal comfort, significantly improved energy ratings and a 50% reduction in carbon emissions. SETU has also completed work on its new Corporate Services Building which is an A rated, Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) compliant building, with a suite of systems minimising emissions and water and energy use. SETU has been awarded the NTA Smarter Travel Mark acknowledging, the university’s support for active and sustainable travel on the commute and beyond.