Massey University to be carbon neutral in 10 years

Massey University’s Climate Action Plan calls for reductions in its greenhouse gas emissions in transport, energy, buildings, farms and waste and recycling with the aim of being carbon neutral by 2030.

Electrifying its vehicle fleet (it has four EVs) is also part of the university’s plan which includes adopting lower emission transport forms such as carpooling, mass transit and cycling.

Details of Massey’s carbon-reducing initiatives and on-farm methane reduction will be worked out during the next few months.

Other initiatives being explored include installing roof top solar panels, converting natural gas boilers to electric heat pump technology, increasing LED light use, installing light sensors, and improving building thermal performance.

“To achieve it by 2030 we are undertaking a strategic assessment process examining where carbon savings can be made given the current carbon profile of the university, and where opportunities exist to use fossil-free technologies, policies and behavioural change to meet the target,” university sustainability director Dr Allanah Ryan says.

Earlier this year, Massey University negotiated an agreement with Air New Zealand to offset the carbon emissions from its staff travel with the airline.