University of Tartu’s greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by more than 2.7-fold over six years

The University of Tartu’s statistics dashboard now includes data on the university’s greenhouse gas emissions for 2019–2025. According to the figures, the university’s total greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by more than 2.7 times. Considering the number of staff and students, emissions per person have decreased by as much as 3.4 times.

The most significant changes have taken place in energy consumption. Since March 2024, both the university and its affiliated non-profit organisations have been using 100% renewable electricity. In addition, the university’s buildings have switched from gas heating to lower-emission district heating and cooling systems, while the share of electricity generated by solar panels has increased year by year.

The university has sought to reduce its environmental impact by promoting sustainable transport options. Bicycle parking facilities have been established near study buildings, and the updated Transport management regulations encourage the use of environmentally sustainable modes of transport. In future, passenger cars purchased by the university will generally be required to be zero-emission.

Although emissions have declined substantially in recent years, a large proportion of the university’s current environmental impact stems from areas that are more difficult to influence. According to the 2025 data, the largest sources of emissions are procured services, real estate investments, business travel and purchased goods.

Transportation accounts for more than 28% of the university’s total emissions, while emissions associated with real estate investments represent approximately one quarter. At the same time, renovation and construction projects help improve the energy efficiency of buildings and create a better environment for learning and working. The university’s spatial development strategy aims to increase energy efficiency and implement more nature-based solutions that support adaptation to climate change.

Compared with other Estonian universities, the University of Tartu’s greenhouse gas emissions per person are among the lowest. In 2025, they amounted to 1.03 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per employee or student.

The published data provide a clearer understanding of the environmental impact of the university’s activities and support decision-making to further reduce emissions. As a next step, the university plans to add indicators of buildings’ energy consumption to its statistics dashboard and to prepare an environmental sustainability action plan to identify the university’s next sustainability measures in cooperation with staff and students.

More detailed information on greenhouse gas emissions can be found on the university’s statistics dashboard, and further reading on the subject is available on the university’s sustainable development webpage.