University of Chicago
University of Chicago
The University of Chicago is one of the world’s leading research institutions, a member Ivy Plus Sustainability Consortium, and a 2021 ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. The main campus, a 217-acre botanic garden located on Chicago’s south side, includes more than 135 buildings that host and support multiple academic programs, research, arts, and culture.
PORTFOLIO-WIDE LEADERSHIP COMMITMENTS
50% GHG reduction in 10 years
20% reduction in Energy Intensity
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO IS PARTICIPATING IN THE FOLLOWING DOE PROGRAMS:
Better Climate Challenge | Better Buildings Challenge |
The University’s Sustainability Plan has a strong focus on climate change and energy. The University released the 2018–2025 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan to reduce scopes 1 and 2 carbon intensity by 20% by 2025 and implemented 25 projects that contributed to a 13% reduction in scope 1 and 2 carbon intensity by 2020. In response to the urgent threat posed by global climate change, the University recently established a new goal to achieve a 50% reduction in scopes 1 and 2 absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The University’s new target for the main campus expands both the magnitude and scope of the original goal. A new implementation plan in development will guide decisions to reduce greenhouse emissions from University buildings and fleet vehicles while procuring renewable electricity from on- and off-site sources.
PROGRESS

GHG Emissions Goals |
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50%Reduction in Scope 1 & 2 Emissions 50% reduction in GHG emissions, based on a commitment of 9.12 million square feet.
![]() | Progress |
8%Reduction | Energy Goals |
20%Reduction in Energy Intensity 20% Reduction in Portfolio Energy Intensity from a 2018 baseline by 2030. Based on a commitment of 9.12 million square feet.
![]() | Progress |
