Murdoch University has unveiled its Decarbonisation Roadmap 2025-2030, which aims to significantly reduce the University's carbon footprint and advance its sustainability goals.
The comprehensive roadmap outlines a clear and actionable path to achieving Net Zero operational emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2030 and carbon positivity by 2035.
The roadmap comes on the back of a comprehensive review of the University’s carbon emissions footprint and involves a series of strategic projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Key initiatives include significant improvements to the campus-wide energy management system, the installation of solar panels, electrification of the vehicle fleet, and the exploration of on-site carbon sequestration opportunities.
Murdoch University's South St. Campus, which contributes approximately 87% to the University’s total Scope 1 and 2 emissions, is the primary focus of these decarbonisation efforts.
The roadmap emphasises the importance of collaboration across various departments and stakeholders, leveraging the University's strengths and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
“Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through the ambitious targets we’ve set and our roadmap to achieve them,” Pro Vice Chancellor Sustainability Dr Martin Brueckner said.
By 2030, we intend to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by at least 90% through innovative technologies, energy efficiency measures, and organisation-wide environmental stewardship.
“We will address any residual emissions through carbon removal solutions and green power purchase agreements.”
In addition to its core decarbonisation projects, the roadmap includes alternative pathways and research and development opportunities to further reduce emissions and achieve Net Zero operational emissions by 2030 and carbon positivity by 2035.
“These pathways represent different combinations of technologies, strategies, and timelines that can be pursued based on factors such as technological maturity, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with the University's broader objectives,” Dr Brueckner said.
Murdoch is also committed to addressing the broader impact of its supply chain and indirect emissions (Scope 3), working towards achieving Net Zero Scope 3 emissions by 2050.
The strategy and targets outlined in the Decarbonisation Roadmap are guided by science-based principles and are aligned with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Vice Chancellor Professor Andrew Deeks said the Decarbonisation Roadmap is a confident and necessary step towards a sustainable future.
“It reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and our responsibility to lead by example in the fight against climate change,” Professor Deeks said.
We are excited about the journey we’re on and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our University and the wider community.
By implementing the Decarbonisation Roadmap, Murdoch is not only addressing its own carbon footprint but also contributing to the broader body of knowledge and setting an example for other institutions.
The benefits go beyond significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The roadmap is expected to deliver economic savings through energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources, educational opportunities for research and development in sustainability, and foster a culture of environmental responsibility.
As the roadmap progresses, Dr Brueckner said the University would remain adaptable and responsive to emerging technologies and changing circumstances.
“Our staged and multi-faceted approach ensures that we can navigate potential challenges, harness new opportunities, and continue to make meaningful progress towards our decarbonisation goals.
“Together, we can create a sustainable and resilient future for our campuses and beyond.”
