Since 2019 NOVA has estimated its Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions related to energy consumption (electricity, gas and oil products), according to GRI standards. For the year 2023, these emissions have amounted 3 591 t CO2, 90% being from electricity consumption. This number represents a 48% decrease when compared with 2019 and 30% compared with 2022.
The significant CO2 emissions downward trend is related with the electricity consumption and is due to two main reasons. First, a reduction in NOVA electricity consumption, 14% compared with 2019 and 4% with 2022. No less important is the decarbonization of the Portuguese electricity production system, with the closure of the coal power plants (in 2021 and 2023), and the increase of the renewables production (61% in 2023; 57% in 2022). On average, in comparison to 2019, the carbon intensity of the electricity purchased from the grid in 2023 decreased 40%.
NOVA is committed to continue on this path with the Route Zero project, through which a Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions inventory is being completed. This will allow for a more comprehensive accounting of the University direct and indirect emissions and inform on the most cost-effective options to reach our goals of becoming a Net Zero University.
SDG Target 13.3 – Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning