University of Exeter
Beyond Offsetting: A Science Led Climate Strategy
Finalist, 2030 Climate Action
About
The University of Exeter’s Climate Strategy 2025–2030 sets out a whole-institution, science-led approach to tackling the climate crisis. Developed through extensive collaboration and grounded in world-leading research, it prioritises deep emissions reduction across all scopes rather than reliance on offsetting. Aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative, it commits to a 26% emissions reduction by 2030 and at least 90% by 2050. Delivery is embedded across seven pillars, including operational emissions, education, research, behaviour change and partnerships, with detailed action plans owned across faculties and services. The approach integrates sustainability into decision-making, campus operations and the student experience, while supporting innovation and sector leadership. Through transparent governance, measurable targets and strong partnerships, the strategy translates ambition into coordinated, real-world impact at institutional, regional and global levels.
Top 3 Learnings
- Empower staff and students - meeting our commitments requires collective action and shared responsibility.
- Leverage internal expertise - collaboration between academics and professional services strengthens credibility and impact.
- Be open about successes and challenges – we learn as much from sharing challenges as we do from recognising success.
What it would mean to win
Winning this award would be a powerful endorsement of the University of Exeter’s commitment to delivering meaningful, science led climate action. It would recognise our decision to prioritise real emissions reductions over offsetting, and our whole institution approach that embeds sustainability across research, education, operations and partnerships. Above all, it would recognise the collective efforts of our staff, students and partners, whose collaboration is essential to achieving our ambitious targets. It would also strengthen our ability to influence others, demonstrating that a credible, transparent and evidence based pathway to net zero is both achievable and impactful.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| 2030 Climate Action | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
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