Green University in the Czech Republic: Difference between revisions

The main goal of the project "Klimaneutrale Universität Graz" is the reduction of CO₂ emissions at the University of Graz and also a vision of carbon neutrality. The head of the project is PhD. student Christian Kozina from the Institute of Geography and Regional Science at the University of Graz. It is part of his dissertation project Nachhaltige Klimaneutralität im Dienstleistungssektor – Transdisziplinäre Fallstudie an der Universität Graz“ (Sustainable carbon-neutrality in the service sector - transdisciplinary case study at the university Graz). The carbon neutrality is included as a strategic aim in the development plan for the period 2013-2018. The project was published for the public in March 2012 as part of the action "Klimaschutz? Ja, bitte! " (Climate protection? Yes, please!). The university want to report on climate protection of Univesity of Graz every year.<ref>KOZINA, Ch.,Die Universität Graz wird klimaneutral,WHAT'S UP ZUR ENERGIEWENDEKONFERENZ JUNI 2012 [online] [cit. 16. Juni 2012]

The project focuses on different issues with the potential to decrease emissions. A potential for total reduction of emissions was identified within the areas of electricity, heating and mobility. In terms of heating and electricity, there is not so much effort needed. Both of them are already based on renewable resources. Within the mobility issue, there are many ways how to reduce CO₂ emissions. Public transport and cycling are promoted in order to limit the environmental impact of private vehicles. Other areas covered by the project are nutrition and consumption. There is some possibility for the decrease of emissions within both of them, altough total reduction is impossible.  

Since March 5th 2012, a website of this project offers the possibility to calculate one's ecological footprint and expenditure of CO₂ by the „Zero Emission Calculator“. There is also a space for ideas and solutions how to decrease the consumption of CO₂ at the university.CO₂. Every month the coordination team of the project organizes a meeting where everybody can contribute with their own suggestions<ref>KOZINA, Ch., Climate Neutral University of Graz,[online] [cit. 11.9.2012]  

The University of Graz supports initiations for environmental sustainability. 25 projects for the climate protection took place at the university from 2004 until 2011. The newest one has began in 2011 ("Klimaneutrale Universität Graz"). University implemented variuos measures for climate protection. Cafeterias offer the possibility to buy some Fair Trade products, sensor lights were installed in some parts of the buildings, insulation was applied, solar panels were installed on the roof of some buildings. Many activities were done in the field of mobility. Parking places were reduced and specific streets in the campus were closed for cars. Charger for electric bicycles working on photovoltaic panel was installed in front of the library. Cycling pathways were created around the campus area and bike rental was opened at the university.<ref>Klimaneutrale Universität Graz,[online] URL: <http://www.uni-graz.at/klimaneutral></ref><ref>Uni Graz will Energieverbrauch reduzieren[online] [cit. 06.03.2012] URL: < http://steiermark.orf.at/news/stories/2523735/ ></ref>

The university won the price in the categoty Administration for the third time (also in the years 2008 and 2010).<ref>Uni Graz mit dem „Nachhaltigkeits-Oscar“ Sustainability Award 2012 ausgezeichnet,UNI.NEWS 166 [online][ 27.4.2012 ] URL: < http://www.uni-graz.at/bdrwww/bdrwww_uninews/bdrwww_uninews2012/bdrwww_uninews2012_166.htm#166_4 ></ref>