What has influenced greenhouse gas emissions in 2024

Charles Sturt’s primary focus for driving reductions in organisational greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) in 2024 was its comprehensive clean energy strategy which sets out a pathway for becoming a resilient, efficient and low-carbon university. In 2024, despite efforts to reduce GHGE, overall emissions increased by 3,265 t CO2-e (11 per cent) compared to the previous year. This represents a 27 per cent reduction from the 2014 baseline. Key initiatives in 2024 that contributed to 16,263 t CO2-e avoided emissions included:

• continuation of our renewable power purchase agreement for major sites.
• continuation of GreenPower purchases for minor sites.
• energy efficiency improvements and elimination of some natural gas sources.

Non-energy related Scope 3 emissions rose by 54 per cent, in comparison to 2023, to 12,324 t CO2-e. Increases were attributed to new emission sources being introduced into reporting in alignment with the GHG Protocol as well as a larger building construction and renovation program. All residual emissions were offset in line with Charles Sturt’s ongoing commitment to carbon neutrality under the Australian Government Climate Active program.