ANU strengthens climate goals 

The Australian National University (ANU) is strengthening its climate goals, announcing new emissions reductions targets for 2030. 

The new targets mark a major step in the University’s journey to below zero emissions by 2040. They form part of the new Environmental Sustainability Plan 2026–2030. 

ANU has already reduced direct on-campus and electricity emissions by 78 per cent since 2019, supported by the ACT’s 100 per cent renewable electricity supply and targeted operational improvements. The next stage will see continued electrification of campus infrastructure, beginning with Mt Stromlo Observatory and the Crawford Building in 2026. 

ANU Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Rebekah Brown said the changes will provide clearer direction. 

“These changes reflect the University’s commitment to acting responsibly and decisively on climate change, in line with international best practice,” Professor Brown said. 

“By setting clear interim targets aligned with the Science Based Targets Initiative, we are being transparent about the pathway we will take toward our long-term net zero and below-zero goals. The most effective and credible way to decarbonise is to reduce emissions at their source, and that is where we are focusing our efforts. 

“At ANU, this means investing directly in practical actions that make a real difference, such as electrifying campus buildings and reducing emissions on site, rather than relying on third-party carbon credits. This approach reflects our responsibility to our community and to future generations” 

The new climate targets were informed by advice from the University’s world-leading climate experts, including Professor Andrew Macintosh and Professor Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, who provided guidance on aligning the University’s approach with the latest climate science and policy. 

Professor Andrew Macintosh said ANU has a responsibility to lead on climate action. 

“These targets represent a positive step and one the University community should celebrate. ANU is taking an evidence-based approach that focuses on reducing its own emissions rather than relying on offsets in a carbon market that is beset with integrity issues. This will support the University’s leadership role in striving towards net zero, following a financially responsible path,” Professor Macintosh said. 

The Environmental Sustainability Plan (ESP) 2026–2030 builds on longstanding work at ANU in environmental sustainability and addresses three interlinked environmental challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, with coordinated action across the University’s built and natural environment, transport and broader value chain. 

Professor Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick said the ESP positions the University to drive measurable impact across its operations. 

“Extreme heat is one of the most significant climate risks we face, and its impacts will only worsen without rapid emissions reduction. Setting clear and ambitious targets is an important step in safeguarding communities now and into the future. It’s encouraging to see ANU adopting this framework,” Professor Perkins-Kirkpatrick said.   

Professor Brown said she was proud of the University’s leadership in this space.   

“Our work in this area was reflected in our performance in the QS World University Rankings Sustainability 2026, where ANU ranked 16th globally and third in Australia,” Professor Brown said. 

Further details of the University’s updated climate goals are available online: Strategy | Environmental Sustainability. 

Top image: ANU