Stanford University Sustainability Profile
Stanford University, often referred to simply as Stanford, is a prestigious private research institution located in Stanford, California, US. Founded in 1885, it has established itself as a leader in higher education and research, consistently ranking among the top universities globally. The university operates primarily in the fields of education, research, and innovation, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and the humanities. Stanford is renowned for its cutting-edge research facilities and a collaborative environment that fosters creativity and entrepreneurship. Notable achievements include its significant contributions to Silicon Valley's development and its extensive alumni network, which includes numerous Nobel laureates and industry leaders. With a commitment to academic excellence and a focus on interdisciplinary studies, Stanford University continues to shape the future of education and research on a global scale.
DitchCarbon Score
How does Stanford 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
Stanford University's score of 36 is higher than 65% of the industry. This can give you a sense of how well the company is doing compared to its peers.
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Stanford University's reported carbon emissions
In 2024, Stanford University reported total carbon emissions of approximately 367,700,000 kg CO2e, with Scope 1 and 2 emissions contributing to this total. The university's emissions profile includes significant Scope 3 emissions, particularly from business travel (approximately 111,524,000 kg CO2e) and purchased goods and services (approximately 228,107,000 kg CO2e). Stanford has set ambitious climate commitments, aiming to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 80% below peak levels by 2025, with a long-term goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to addressing climate change and aligns with industry standards for sustainability. The university's emissions data is not cascaded from any parent organization, indicating that these figures are independently reported. Overall, Stanford University is actively working towards substantial reductions in its carbon footprint, demonstrating leadership in sustainability within the higher education sector.
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| 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scope 1 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Scope 2 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Scope 3 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | 000,000,000 |
How Carbon Intensive is Stanford University's Industry?
How Carbon Intensive is Stanford University's Location?
Stanford University's Scope 3 Categories Breakdown
Their carbon footprint includes supplier sustainability and value chain emissions data across Scope 3 categories, with "Purchased Goods and Services" being the largest emissions source at 62% of Scope 3 emissions.
Top Scope 3 Categories
Stanford 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.
Stanford 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.
