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Students gathered in a circle on the lawn in spring under a flowering tree on Penn campus

Our Plan

100% carbon-neutral by 2042

Penn's Climate & Sustainability Action Plan (CSAP) is our roadmap to a cleaner future. 

Outlining the steps forward to achieve our University’s ambitious environmental sustainability goals, CSAP challenges the ingenuity and commitment of Penn. One such goal, a 100% carbon-neutral campus by 2042, is audacious yet achievable through the many programs and initiatives championed by Penn Sustainability.

The CSAP would not be possible without the unwavering commitment of our faculty, students, and staff in solving environmental issues. Every five years a new update to the original Climate Action Plan (circa 2009) is released. And, benchmarks and expectations grow with every new plan released. 
 

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Climate & Sustainability Action Plan 3.0

The third iteration of our Climate and Sustainability Action Plan (CSAP) represents a marker in Penn’s remarkable transformation into one of the world’s premier teaching and research institutions.

We have been fueled by enormous growth in capabilities, means, and influence, and Penn will continue to lead in the environmental field. Inclusive climate change scholarships, innovative policy formation, and the adoption of best practices continue to dramatically impact our campus efficiency and reduce emissions.   

Our Goals

CSAP 3.0 Cover

Penn is actively combating climate change, adapting to environmental shifts, and preparing our university and students to excel in a dynamic world. Our goals are:

  • Boost Penn's sustainability research and student involvement
  • Reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy
  • Adopt circular economy to minimize waste
  • Choose sustainability in operations and transportation
  • Engage Penn community in climate/sustainability goals

Since launching the first Climate Action Plan in 2009, Penn has seen significant progress, notably in student and faculty engagement. The Sustainability Office's accurate reporting aids decision-making, leading to enhanced energy efficiency, carbon reduction, workflow optimization, cost management, and investment prioritization.

Progress highlights

Built Environment
  • Certification of Penn's main academic campus as a Level II Arboretum and the adoption of LEED Silver minimum standards
Climate & Energy
  • Building-related emissions reductions of over 40% (a result of on-campus conservation strategies plus a lower-carbon energy supply)
  • A solar power purchase agreement which offset ~70% of the main campus and health system electricity with renewable energy
Engagement
  • Recognition of individuals and teams across Penn who develop innovative ideas to improve purchasing sustainability
  • Continued engagement and education of the campus community through social media, newsletters, Climate Week and Earth Week campaigns, and affinity groups
Recycling & Waste
  • Over 20% waste diversion rate due to innovative purchasing and diversion strategies
Teaching & Learning
  • Expansion of scholarship, research, and course offerings on sustainability, including 8 new environmentally-focused academic centers
Transportation
  • The addition of 4 electric vans to our transit fleet by Penn Parking and Transportation
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Penn Sustainability: Join us as we continue to live, lead, and learn by example

Penn’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan 3.0 unites our entire University community in a common mission of environmental stewardship through deliberate assessment, analysis, and planning. Penn is taking action to mitigate climate impacts, adapt to emerging environmental conditions, and prepare our university—and our students—to lead in a rapidly evolving world.

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Join the movement

Penn's plan pushes our community to innovate and shrink our ecological footprint. We prioritize environmental health and resilience, aiming for a remarkable 100x42 carbon neutrality pledge. 

With our resources, expertise, and dedication, this audacious goal is within reach. The CSAP 3.0 turns ambitions into action and shared values into accomplishments. Together, we can secure a sustainable future.

Join the movement

Penn's plan pushes our community to innovate and shrink our ecological footprint. We prioritize environmental health and resilience, aiming for a remarkable 100x42 carbon neutrality pledge. 

With our resources, expertise, and dedication, this audacious goal is within reach. The CSAP 3.0 turns ambitions into action and shared values into accomplishments. Together, we can secure a sustainable future.

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