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Climate Action

A New Plan for Climate Action


As climate change continues to cause and intensify both local and global challenges, the University of Utah (the U) is choosing to act boldly and leverage its collective impact as an institution to pave the way for a better future. Building on the U’s first Climate Action Plan, released in 2010, this updated Climate Action Plan (CAP) highlights progress that has been made and articulates new ways university research and education can contribute to more positive climate outcomes. It outlines a path toward meeting the U’s accelerated 2040 target date for achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions and builds on the U’s recent Climate Resilience Assessment, identifying steps to prepare for impacts of climate change on U facilities and people.

Read The Plan

Goals & Targets


RESEARCH

Generate climate-related research that supports those most impacted and drives solutions in Utah and beyond.

Faculty producing climate-related research

2022 Status

By 2030

By 2040

EDUCATION

Graduate students with knowledge and skills to address climate-related challenges and opportunities.

STARS Curriculum & Engagement Points Earned

2022 Status

By 2030

By 2040

MITIGATION

Take urgent action to reduce green house gas emissions.

Reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions

2022 Status

By 2030

By 2040

RESILIENCE

Increase university and community resilience to the current and future impacts of climate change.

U of U Resilience Assessment metrics improved

2022 Status

By 2030

By 2040

Climate News Around the U


Great Salt Lake’s mystery islands

U geologists are investigating if the groundwater revealed by reed-covered mounds can be tapped to...

Ever wonder how an EV stacks up against a gas car?

U student Adrian Martino partners with Utah Clean Energy to develop handy online tool that...

It may be stinky and buggy, but Great Salt Lake is worth saving

U scientists are helping guide Utah’s Great Salt Lake Strike Team, formed three years ago...

Don’t forget to look up!

While you’re admiring what’s blooming down low, don’t forget to look up. Summer is in...

VIEW THE CLIMATE ACTION PLAN

Approximately 4,300 participants provided input during the CAP’s stakeholder engagement period, helping to ensure that this plan reflects the needs and collective expertise of the broad university community. The CAP differs from previous efforts in its inclusion of U of U Health: patients and health care providers were engaged to help the plan address climate-health impacts.

View Plan PDF