Northwestern University, a prestigious private research institution, is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, with additional campuses in Chicago and Doha, Qatar. Founded in 1851, it has established itself as a leader in higher education, particularly in the fields of journalism, law, and business.
Renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, Northwestern offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programmes, emphasising innovation and research. The university is distinguished by its commitment to experiential learning, fostering a unique environment that encourages collaboration across various disciplines.
With a strong market position, Northwestern consistently ranks among the top universities in the United States, celebrated for its academic excellence and notable alumni. Its dedication to advancing knowledge and societal impact solidifies its reputation as a premier institution in the global education landscape.
+10 vs industry average
Northwestern University’s score of 33 is higher than 64% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
Part of the Sustainability team at Northwestern University?
- Control how your company's emission story is told
- Respond to customers efficiently
- See who's viewing your profile
Industry Intensity
Education Services has below-average carbon intensity
Industry performance
The Education Services industry has reduced its overall emissions by 19% since 2019
Emissions trajectory 2020 – 2025
Reported emissions
Scope 3 accounts for ••• of total emissions.
Northwestern University's reported carbon emissions
In 2022, Northwestern University reported approximately 179.8 million kg CO2e in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. This figure reflects a slight increase from 2021, when emissions were about 175.7 million kg CO2e. The university has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming for a 30% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, using 2012 as the baseline year. Furthermore, Northwestern is committed to achieving net zero emissions across all scopes by 2050. Despite the absence of detailed Scope 3 emissions data, the university's proactive approach to sustainability is evident in its long-term goals and reduction targets. These initiatives underscore Northwestern's dedication to addressing climate change and reducing its carbon footprint.
Unlock detailed emission data
Access structured emission data, company specific factors and auditable source documents
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.
See all 3 climate goals
Already have an account? Sign in now
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
View similar organisations
Northwestern University
Usage policy
You’re welcome to quote or reference data from this page, but please include a visible link back to this URL. Bulk collection, resale, or redistribution of data from multiple profiles is not permitted.
See our License Agreement for more details.
Where does DitchCarbondata come from?
Discover our data-driven methodology for measuring corporate climate action and benchmarking against industry peers
Learn moreCurious to see your top suppliers emissions?
Book a demo for a pilot project