Durham University Sustainability Profile
Durham University, a prestigious institution located in Durham, GB, has been a beacon of academic excellence since its founding in 1832. Renowned for its rigorous academic programmes and research initiatives, the university operates primarily in the higher education sector, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines. With a strong emphasis on research-led teaching, Durham University is particularly noted for its strengths in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The university's unique collegiate system fosters a vibrant community, enhancing the student experience and promoting personal development. Recognised globally, Durham consistently ranks among the top universities in the UK and has achieved notable accolades for its research output and student satisfaction.
DitchCarbon Score
How does Durham University's carbon action stack up? DitchCarbon scores companies based on their carbon action and commitment to reducing emissions. Read about our methodology to learn more.
Industry Average
Mean score of companies in the Education Services industry. Comparing a company's score to the industry average can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Industry Benchmark
Durham University's score of 46 is higher than 72% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Durham University's reported carbon emissions
In 2024, Durham University reported total carbon emissions of approximately 25,248,000 kg CO2e. This figure includes Scope 1 emissions of about 12,802,000 kg CO2e, primarily from stationary combustion, and Scope 2 emissions of around 8,156,000 kg CO2e from purchased electricity. Additionally, Scope 3 emissions totalled approximately 4,291,000 kg CO2e, with significant contributions from business travel. Durham University has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for a 100% reduction in Scope 2 electricity use by the 2034/35 academic year. For Scope 1 emissions, the university targets a 67% reduction by the same year. Furthermore, the university's Net Zero ambition includes achieving this goal by 2035, alongside a commitment to Biodiversity Net Gain by 2032. These targets align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and the Paris Agreement, aiming for a 46% reduction in emissions by 2030. Overall, Durham University is actively working towards significant emissions reductions, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and climate action.
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| 2019 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | 13,831,000 | 00,000,000 | 00,000,000 |
| Scope 2 | 10,179,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
| Scope 3 | 6,203,000 | 0,000,000 | 0,000,000 |
How Carbon Intensive is Durham University's Industry?
How Carbon Intensive is Durham University's Location?
Durham University's Scope 3 Categories Breakdown
Durham University's Scope 3 emissions, which increased by 56% last year and decreased by approximately 31% since 2019, demonstrating supply chain emissions tracking. Their carbon footprint includes suppliers and value chain emissions, with Scope 3 emissions accounting for 17% of total emissions under the GHG Protocol, with "Business Travel" being the largest emissions source at 97% of Scope 3 emissions.
Top Scope 3 Categories
Durham University's Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
Climate goals typically focus on 2030 interim targets and 2050 net-zero commitments, aligned with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement and Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to ensure alignment with global climate goals.
Durham University has not publicly committed to specific 2030 or 2050 climate goals through the major frameworks we track. Companies often set interim 2030 targets and long-term 2050 net-zero goals to demonstrate measurable progress toward decarbonization.
