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University of Hohenheim: Focus on sustainability through CO2 reduction!
The University of Hohenheim is reducing CO2 emissions by 10% through energy saving measures and is planning to set up a Green Office.
University of Hohenheim: Focus on sustainability through CO2 reduction!
The University of Hohenheim in Stuttgart has significantly reduced its CO2 emissions. In the period from 2019 to 2023, the university was able to achieve a reduction of almost 10%. Emissions fell from 29,999 tonnes of CO2 equivalents to 27,026 tonnes. Successful energy saving measures, especially when it comes to heating, play a central role. However, this decline is not the only step towards sustainability. In 2024, a Green Office will also be founded to support further savings and promote innovative projects.
Another milestone in the university's efforts is the planning of two new test facilities for agricultural photovoltaics. These systems should not only serve research, but also contribute to sustainable energy supply. The University of Hohenheim is positioning itself as a pioneer in greenhouse gas accounting among universities in Germany and setting standards for other institutions in the country.
Balancing and emission sources
The university's carbon emissions accounting includes both direct and indirect emissions, including commuting, business trips and purchased goods. According to current data, the largest sources of emissions are distributed as follows:
| emission source | CO2 equivalents (t) | the change |
|---|---|---|
| Stationary combustion (heating plant) | 8,728 | -29% |
| Commuting to campus | 3,762 | +35% |
| Business trips | 3,398 | hardly any change |
| Purchased goods and services | 2,206 | -36% |
| Upstream chain energy | 2,103 | -27% |
What is particularly noticeable is the increase in commuting emissions, which is due to changed calculation methods and the increased number of university members. From 2025, annual greenhouse gas accounting will be mandatory for all universities in Baden-Württemberg, which further underlines the importance of these measures. The University of Hohenheim is actively involved in developing uniform accounting guidelines to ensure a holistic view of emissions.
This is done as part of a comprehensive sustainability strategy that integrates various measures to reduce greenhouse gases. The formation of so-called “Green Teams” is also being planned to promote sustainability in different areas. Chancellor Dr. Katrin Scheffer highlights the need for modernization and support for climate goals that will be crucial for the future.
Context of climate neutrality
In view of the current challenges posed by climate change, the focus is increasingly on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The IPCC's Sixth Assessment Report from 2023 makes it clear that human activities, particularly fossil fuel burning and agriculture, are contributing significantly to global warming of around 1.1°C since the beginning of the 20th century. In the EU, the largest share of greenhouse gas emissions comes from energy supply (27.4%), followed by domestic transport (23.8%) and industry (20.3%) europarl.europa.eu reported.
The discussion about the accounting, reduction and compensation of greenhouse gas emissions at universities is becoming increasingly important, especially with regard to the long-term goal of climate neutrality. Institutions such as HIS-HE are committed to supporting universities in achieving these goals and recommending practical measures. It is crucial that universities like the University of Hohenheim are not only pioneers in accounting, but also act as role models for other institutions to work together to combat climate change.