Tallinn University of Technology has set a target to reduce its carbon footprint by five times by the year 2035. The newly developed roadmap outlines steps toward climate neutrality. During its creation, multiple scenarios were calculated, and the most effective measures were selected to simultaneously reduce the university's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve the learning environment.
According to TalTech Rector Tiit Land, the climate neutrality roadmap is a science-based guide that helps minimize environmental impact while fostering innovative solutions. By following this guide, the university’s operations will also become more cost-effective. “Our campuses serve as environments where we can test and implement smart solutions that enhance the quality of education and research while simultaneously reducing our carbon footprint. The university plays a pioneering role here – if we can significantly reduce our footprint on campus, we can help other institutions and companies do the same. We hope our students will carry this mindset into society at large,” said Land.
“One of the key goals of our roadmap was to define a climate-neutral university with measurable indicators and to develop science-based solutions to achieve it. During the creation of the roadmap, we found that the greatest potential for reducing GHG emissions lies in buildings. By intelligently renovating, modernizing learning environments, and utilizing technological innovations, emissions can be reduced by up to 80%. Additionally, the university has a significant opportunity to optimize energy use by reducing constant base consumption and increasing the share of locally produced renewable energy. Climate neutrality is not just an environmental issue – it's also a strategic and economic matter that enables the university to operate more efficiently and sustainably in the long term,” added Professor Jarek Kurnitski.
The roadmap provides an overview of the university's GHG emissions across four main categories: buildings and energy, mobility, procured goods and services, and food. As of 2024, TalTech’s GHG emissions amount to 23,719 tons of CO₂ equivalent, which translates to 2.17 tons per person. The aim is to reduce direct and indirect emissions by 80% by 2035.
Measures to reduce the mobility footprint can achieve a 29% decrease in emissions by promoting public transportation and active mobility, as well as by developing on-campus services. The environmental impact of procured goods and services can be minimized through more sustainable procurement practices and conscious consumption. Although food services contribute only 1.3% to the university’s carbon footprint, attention is being directed toward creating healthier menu options, raising awareness about balanced nutrition, and reducing food waste.
The roadmap was developed by TalTech researchers and support staff who designed the greenhouse gas inventory methodology and modeled the impact of the university's various activities. This type of environmental impact reduction roadmap serves as a unique science-based guide in Estonia.