Governance and Leadership
SDG 13: Focus Areas
13.3.2 Climate Action Plan, shared
Policy on Energy and Climate Change
1 Definitions
- Energy: Refers to all forms of electricity, fuel, and renewable energy used in campus operations.
- Climate Change: Refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily due to human activity such as burning fossil fuels.
- Energy Management: The systematic process of monitoring, controlling, and conserving energy within the University to reduce consumption and environmental impact.
- Renewable Energy: Energy generated from natural resources such as sunlight, wind, or geothermal heat that are replenished naturally.
2 Policy Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to promote sustainable energy management throughout the University of Bahrain and to contribute to global efforts to mitigate climate change. It aims to:
- Conserve natural resources and protect the environment.
- Reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through improved energy performance.
- Raise awareness among staff, students, and partners about the importance of energy conservation.
- Support Bahrain’s Net Zero Carbon 2060 commitment.
3 Policy Scope
3.1 This policy applies to all staff, faculty, students, and contractors of the University.
3.2 It covers all University-owned buildings, facilities, research centers, laboratories, and other operations where energy is consumed.
3.3 It applies to both on-campus and off-campus activities managed by the University, including affiliated entities and projects.
4 Policy Statement
The University of Bahrain is committed to responsible energy management and to reducing the institution’s carbon footprint.
The following strategic actions will be implemented:
4.1 Energy Efficiency
- Improve energy efficiency across all University buildings and facilities.
- Conduct periodic energy audits and implement corrective measures to optimize usage.
4.2 Renewable Energy Transition
- Generate renewable energy on-site (e.g., solar panels) and/or procure electricity from renewable sources.
- Integrate renewable energy systems in all new constructions and major renovations.
4.3 Sustainable Building Design
- Adhere to Bahrain’s Green Building Manual and Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles.
- Encourage the use of smart systems for data collection, control, and monitoring of mechanical and electrical systems.
4.4 Climate Change Mitigation and Education
- Support research, teaching, and outreach on energy transition and climate change.
- Engage with students, faculty, and the community to raise awareness and foster sustainable behaviors.
4.5 Compliance and Continuous Improvement
- Comply with national environmental regulations and sustainability commitments.
- Continuously improve energy performance through monitoring, reporting, and review.
5 Roles and Responsibilities
1.1 Organizational units at the University are responsible for implementing monitoring and reporting aspects of the policy.
1.2 Academic departments are responsible for integrating energy and climate topics into the programs and the university’s activities.
6 Policy Procedures
- Conduct regular audits of electricity, water, and fuel usage across all facilities.
- Establish measurable energy-efficiency targets each academic year.
- Maintain a centralized system for tracking energy consumption and emission data.
- Evaluate new technologies and methods for renewable energy integration.
- Provide annual sustainability reports to the University Council.
