Take Climate Action at the U
Engage in cutting-edge climate research, become a climate-ready leader, reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and prepare for the impacts of climate change.
Climate Tracking
The Climate Dashboard is an interactive tool to measure sustainability performance. By better understanding the U's progress over time, members of the U community can identify concerns that propel the institution forward. The Climate Office reports these metrics to the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). In 2021, the University of Utah received a STARS Gold rating.
Climate Dashboard
Emissions
The U continues to reduce its emissions, even as the campus adds more students and buildings. The University of Utah tracks Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions each year and reports to SIMAP.
Decrease
34%
in operational emissions CO2e emissions since 2007
Renwables
65%
of purchased electricity is from renewables
Emissions Year Over Year (MTCO2E)
FY07 - Scope 1 and Scope 2
FY25 - Scope 1 and Scope 2
Electricity Purchased Year Over Year
Water
The University of Utah is taking significant strides to reduce its water use. For indoor water use reduction, the university requires Watersense fixtures in major renovations and new construction, and Facilities Management has completed significant work to identify and repair leaks. For outdoor water use, learn more about irrigations practices from UFacilities.
Campus Monthly Water Usage
Water Usage By Year
Transportation
Sustainable transportation options, both to and within the university, reduce vehicle-related emissions. In 2025, transportation emissions accounted for just over 25% of the university's greenhouse gas emissions. Transportation data is self-reported via a Commuter Survey that is distributed every 2 years. See Commuter Services' Transportation Dashboard for more information.
EV Adoption
9%
with growing use across the campus
Commuting Mode by Affiliation
Transportation By Students
Transportation By Faculty
Transportation By Staff
Buildings
The university implements Green Building Standards such as High Performance Building Standards as required by Utah Division of Facilities and Construction Maintenance. For decades, the University has also pursued LEED on various projects across campus.
See project details – including scorecards – here on US Green Building Council's website.
LEED Buildings
