Northwestern University, a prestigious institution in the United States, is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation in education services. Founded in 1851 and located in Evanston, Illinois, with additional campuses in Chicago and Doha, Qatar, Northwestern has established itself as a leader in higher education.
The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programmes across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, engineering, and business. Its unique interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on research distinguish it from other institutions.
Northwestern consistently ranks among the top universities globally, reflecting its strong market position and notable achievements in research and education. With a focus on fostering critical thinking and creativity, Northwestern University remains a beacon of learning and discovery in the educational landscape.
+9 vs industry average
Northwestern University’s score of 33 is higher than 62% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Industry Intensity
Education Services has below-average carbon intensity
Industry performance
The Education Services industry has reduced its overall emissions by 18% since 2018
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2025
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Northwestern University's reported carbon emissions
Northwestern University, based in the US and operating within the Education Services industry, is committed to significant carbon emission reductions. For fiscal year 2022, the university reported scope 1 and 2 emissions totalling approximately 179.8 million kg CO2e. This figure shows a slight increase from the approximately 175.7 million kg CO2e reported for fiscal year 2021 and approximately 163.2 million kg CO2e for fiscal year 2020. In fiscal year 2019, emissions were approximately 187.7 million kg CO2e, decreasing from approximately 196.2 million kg CO2e in fiscal year 2018 and approximately 192.9 million kg CO2e in fiscal year 2017.
The university has set ambitious climate targets, including a commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. As an interim goal, Northwestern University aims for a 30% reduction in scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, using 2012 as its baseline year. The data for scope 3 emissions, including categories such as purchased goods and services, business travel, and employee commute, is not yet available.
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Northwestern University’s Climate Goals (2030 & 2050)
3 goals2050
Northwestern University is committed to a 30% reduction in s…
Northwestern University is committed to a 30% reduction in scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieving net zero emissions b…
2030
62% reduction in total GHG
Vs 2019 baseline. Validated by SBTi. Includes full supply chain.
2040
50% reduction in Scope 3 intensity
Across purchased goods and services and logistics.
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Scope 3 top emissions categories
No scope 3 category breakdown has been disclosed yet.
Climate initiatives

Science Based Targets Initiative

Carbon Disclosure Project
The Climate Pledge
UN Global Compact Climate Champions initiative
RE 100
Climate Action 100
Emissions comparison with industry peers
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