Operations and Institutional Arrangement
SDG 13: Focus Areas
13.4.1 Commitment to carbon neutral university
University of Bahrain Commitment to the National Energy Strategy and Net-Zero Emissions by 2060
In alignment with the Kingdom of Bahrain’s National Energy Strategy, a comprehensive roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. The University of Bahrain (UOB) is strengthening its institutional role in advancing national sustainability and climate action goals.
The National Energy Strategy outlines a credible and responsible pathway toward a 30% reduction in emissions by 2035, focusing on three strategic levers:
- Optimizing energy demand to reduce consumption and enhance efficiency.
- Diversifying the power mix by integrating cleaner and renewable energy sources.
- Deploying carbon abatement technologies to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors.
In support of these national priorities, the University of Bahrain has established a robust framework for energy and climate management that promotes responsible consumption, energy-efficient infrastructure, and renewable energy adoption across campus operations. The University’s Energy and Climate Change Policy reflects this commitment, ensuring continuous improvement in energy performance, compliance with environmental standards, and active contributions to Bahrain’s sustainability vision.
Moreover, the University advances education, research, and community engagement on energy transition and climate resilience. By embedding sustainability principles in academic curricula and fostering research on clean technologies, UOB is preparing graduates to lead in the green economy and contribute to Bahrain’s low-carbon transformation. Collaborative initiatives with government and industry partners further align the University’s goals with the Kingdom’s Economic Recovery Plan and long-term environmental commitments.
Through these efforts, the University of Bahrain actively supports SDG 13.4.1, demonstrating its leadership in integrating climate action within institutional strategies and national development priorities.
Relevant SDG 13 Targets and Indicators:
13.4.1 Commitment to carbon neutral university
Commitment to a Carbon-Neutral University
Overview:
The University of Bahrain (UoB) has demonstrated strong institutional commitment to achieving carbon neutrality through strategic governance and sustainable energy initiatives. Central to this effort is the University’s Environmental Sustainability Policy and Climate Action Plan, which define clear pathways to achieve carbon neutrality in alignment with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Scopes 1 and 2.
A major milestone in this journey is the initiation of a solar power purchase agreement (PPA), under which the University will purchase solar-generated electricity from a private company responsible for developing a 46.2 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant. This project positions UoB as a leading example of higher education institutions driving large-scale renewable energy adoption in the region.
Governance and Leadership Significance:
- The initiative reflects UoB’s proactive governance approach in embedding sustainability across institutional planning, operations, and decision-making frameworks.
- The Climate Action Plan integrates sustainability principles into all University functions, governance, operations, teaching and learning, research, and community service, ensuring a whole-of-institution response to climate change.
- Through policy implementation and long-term strategic vision, UoB aligns its institutional goals with national and global carbon reduction commitments.
Evidence:
Relevant SDG 13 Targets and Indicators:
