Emission cuts extended as 2030 carbon neutral goal on track
28 August 2025
A bold new climate plan that covers everything from student travel to food purchases will help the University of Reading cut the emissions of its supply chain by 70% by 2040.
The new targets extend beyond campus buildings to include emissions from student halls run by private companies, goods bought by the university, and even student travel home at the end of term. These broader emissions are targeted to fall 40% by 2035 and 70% by 2040.
These aims are set out in the University’s new Net Zero Carbon plan. The original plan, published in 2021, outlined Reading’s pathway to achieving carbon neutrality on campus by 2030 — a goal that is on track to be achieved.
Dan Fernbank, Energy and Sustainability Director at the University of Reading, said: “We've already proven that ambitious climate action delivers real results - cutting emissions by 63% since 2009, while saving millions of pounds.
"We are expanding our carbon targets because we have a responsibility to demonstrate that comprehensive climate action is both possible and beneficial. Our ambitious climate goals will be the benchmark for other institutions to follow.
“By tackling emissions across our operations, we are addressing the entire environmental impact of the University of Reading - not just the easy areas. As we celebrate our centenary in 2026, we are shaping a better world for the next hundred years and beyond.”
How emissions have been cut
The university has already cut building emissions by 63% since 2008 while saving £51.4 million on energy bills. Carbon reductions achieved so far equal taking all cars off Reading's roads for two years. The university reached this by delivering a raft of energy efficiency initiatives, switching from gas heating to electric systems and installing solar panels that now provide 5% of electricity needs. Business travel emissions dropped 50% after the university set an overall cap on travel emissions, including banning flights within the UK and to destinations reachable by train within eight hours from London.
Various actions are planned to achieve the emissions cuts required by 2040:
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Student halls operated by private company UPP must achieve zero carbon emissions by 2040. The University will work with suppliers to cut emissions from goods and services by 80% within 16 years.
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Staff and student commuting emissions must drop by 50% by 2035.
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The university plans to significantly expand its renewable energy and battery storage capability to generate much more of its own electricity.
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Heating systems across the estate will switch from gas to electric heat pumps by 2030.
The updated Plan is one of the most ambitious and comprehensive plans in the higher education sector, reflecting that the University of Reading is a leader in sustainability among higher education institutions. It was recognised as the Sustainable University of the Year 2025 by the Times and Sunday Times and winner of the People & Planet University League in 2023/24.
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