Engage in cutting-edge climate research, become a climate-ready leader, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and prepare for the impacts of climate change.
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.
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
Jessica Swanson, assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Utah, has been named a...
The University of Utah has earned a STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability...
Lumen Bioscience is the inaugural winner of the $1.5 million Wilkes Center Climate Prize at...
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.