SDG #13: Climate Action
Take urgent action to combat climate change
0
Active Initiatives
194
Publications
2020–2025
0
Future Goals
Our Impact
Global climate impact
Beneficiaries
45% carbon footprint decrease
Reduction
1,000+ tree planted
Trees
UTAR Initiatives
Carbon footprint reduction achieving 45% decrease since 2020.
Climate research programmes studying regional climate impacts.
Environmental education reaching 30,000+ students annually.
Tree planting initiatives adding 1,000+ trees to campus.
Climate adaptation strategies for vulnerable communities.
Carbon offset programmes supporting reforestation projects.
Climate Action @ UTAR
Leading urgent climate action through comprehensive carbon reduction strategies, renewable energy initiatives, and climate research programs that address the global climate crisis
45%
Carbon Reduction
10,000+
Trees Planted
Our Commitment to Climate Action
At Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), we recognize the urgent need for climate action and are committed to leading by example in addressing the global climate crisis. Our comprehensive approach to SDG 13 encompasses ambitious carbon reduction targets, renewable energy deployment, and climate research programs that contribute to global climate solutions.
Through our integrated climate strategy we have achieved a remarkable 45% reduction in carbon footprint since 2020, demonstrating that educational institutions can be powerful drivers of climate action. Our initiatives span energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, sustainable transportation, and nature‑based climate solutions.
Our commitment extends beyond campus boundaries through climate research programs, community education initiatives, and partnerships with government agencies and international organizations. By fostering climate literacy and developing innovative solutions, UTAR contributes to building climate resilience and advancing global climate action.
Our Climate Action Principles
Carbon Neutrality
Achieving ambitious carbon reduction targets through energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable practices across all university operations.
climate Resilience
Building adaptive capacity and resilience to climate impacts through infrastructure improvements, emergency preparedness, and community engagement.
Innovation & Research
Developing cutting‑edge climate solutions through research, technology development, and knowledge sharing with global scientific communities.
Responsible Consumption Achievements
45%
Carbon Footprint Reduction
1,000+
Tree Planted
4.1 MWp
Renewable Energy Capacity
80,000+
Students Educated
Our Strategic Responsibility Approach
Mitigation
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency, renewable energy deployment, and sustainable transportation systems.
Adaptation
Building resilience to climate impacts through infrastructure improvements, emergency preparedness, and ecosystem‑based adaptation solutions.
Education
Promoting climate literacy and awareness through comprehensive education programs and community outreach initiatives.
UTAR Climate Action Plan: A Commitment to Sustainability
UTAR is taking significant steps to address climate change. Through the Climate Action Plan, we are committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fostering a sustainable campus, and contributing to national and global sustainability goals.
Our Vision and Objectives
- Supporting National Goals: Aligning with Malaysia’s target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
- Advancing Low-Carbon Development: Adopting LCCF and ESG principles to guide university operations.
- Promoting Green Education and Research: Integrating climate change and sustainability into teaching, research, and community engagement.
Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
- Electricity and water consumption across campuses.
- Commuting emissions from students, staff, and university vehicles.
- Business air and ground travel.
- Solid waste generation and disposal.
Key Strategies for Climate Action
- Improving Energy Efficiency: Conduct energy audits, promote energy-efficient equipment, implement green building standards, and encourage behavioural changes to reduce energy waste.
- Promoting Renewable Energy: 4.1 MWp rooftop solar system at Kampar Campus to reduce CO2 emissions by 75,000 tonnes over its lifetime.
- Enhancing Transportation Options: Improve campus bus services, carpooling, walking, cycling, and explore EV charging stations.
- Reducing Wastes: Promote 5R principles, proper waste & water management, food composting, and sustainable procurement policies.
- Advancing Research and Education: Cross-disciplinary research on climate change and integrating sustainability into academic programs.
Carbon Monitoring and Governance
A dedicated Carbon Monitoring Task Force oversees the implementation of the Climate Action Plan, including representatives from departments, safety officers, and student leaders.
Carbon Neutrality Target (2023–2032)
| Year | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 | 2027 | 2028 | 2029 | 2030 | 2031 | 2032 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reduction (%) | 10% | 20% | 30% | 40% | 50% | 60% | 70% | 80% | 90% | 100% |
Climate Action Initiative Highlights
Low Carbon Energy Use
Comprehensive energy transition programme achieving 75% low-carbon energy usage through renewable energy procurement,
on-site generation, and energy efficiency measures across all university operations, demonstrating leadership in clean energy adoption.
5.01 GWh
Low Carbon Energy
3,799 tCO2e
CO2 Saving
- Renewable energy procurement contracts
- On-site solar energy generation
- Energy efficiency retrofits and smart systems
- Real-time energy monitoring and optimization
Climate Education Programme and Research
Leading climate research programme studying regional climate impacts, developing adaptation strategies, and advancing climate science knowledge through interdisciplinary research and international collaboration networks.
45
Research Projects
194
Publications
- Regional climate impact assessment studies
- Climate adaptation and mitigation research
- International climate research collaboration
- Climate science curriculum integration
Climate Action Plan
Comprehensive institutional Climate Action Plan with science-based targets, detailed implementation roadmap, and regular progress monitoring
to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 while building climate resilience across all operations.
2030
Carbon Neutral Target
50%
Emission Reduction
- Science-based emission reduction targets
- Detailed implementation timeline and milestones
- Annual progress reporting and verification
- Stakeholder engagement and accountability
Joint Action for Climate Resilience
Extensive collaboration with government or related agencies to enhance climate resilience through joint planning, research,
and coordinated actions for sustainable adaptation solutions and community preparedness initiatives.
2
Policy Reports
195
Applicable countries
- Collaborative climate planning and policy support – IPCC working group
- Research and innovation for sustainable solutions
- Capacity building and community preparedness
- Integrated action and knowledge sharing
Bridging Academia and Government for Climate Solutions
Active participation in local and regional climate initiatives including city climate action networks, regional sustainability
partnerships, and community-based climate resilience programmes that amplify collective climate action impact.
3
Climate Networks
15
Partner Organizations
- Regional climate action network membership
- Local government climate partnerships
- Community climate resilience programmes
- Climate advocacy and policy engagement
Partnering for Climate Awareness
Comprehensive climate education programme reaching students, faculty, staff, and community members through curriculum
integration, public workshops, and awareness campaigns that build climate literacy and inspire action.
5,000+
People Educated
20
Programmes Annually
- Climate science curriculum integration
- Public climate literacy workshops
- Student climate action leadership programmes
- Community climate awareness campaigns
Sustaining a Carbon Neutral Campus
Comprehensive carbon footprint measurement and tracking system covering all emission scopes including energy use, transportation,
waste, and supply chain emissions with third-party verification and transparent public reporting.
2032
Carbon Neutral Target
100%
Scope Coverage
- Comprehensive Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions tracking
- Real-time carbon monitoring systems
- Third-party verification and certification
- Annual carbon footprint public reporting
Sustainable Transportation
Comprehensive sustainable mobility programme reducing transportation emissions through electric buggies, bicycles, electric scooters,
active transportation infrastructure, and public transit partnerships that promote low-carbon mobility options.
20%
Transport Emission Cut
200
Bicycles
- Electric bike fleet and charging network
- Campus cycling infrastructure and bike sharing
- Public transit partnerships and incentives
- Remote work and virtual meeting policies
Sustainability Activities Highlights
Activities and achievements from UTAR's commitment to climate action
UTAR and Palm Grove Herb Valley Sdn Bhd exchange MoU to advance herbal research and wellness innovation
16 Ocotber 2025
UTAR and Palm Grove Herb Valley Sdn Bhd formalised a partnership to advance herbal research, sustainable agriculture, and health innovation. The collaboration includes sustainable herb farming, research on bioactive compounds, wellness product development, and experiential learning for students. PGHV’s plantation will serve as a training and research base, supporting workshops and field studies. Joint efforts on publications, conferences, and research grants will foster innovation. The initiative promotes responsible resource use, knowledge exchange, and the development of healthier, sustainable communities.
Bridging borders: BRICS+ collaboration for sustainable growth
23 March 2025
Assoc Prof Dr Inga Koryagina from Plekhanov Russian University of Economics delivered a webinar at UTAR’s Teh Hong Piow Faculty of Business and Finance on BRICS+ youth entrepreneurship. She highlighted business, educational, and cultural collaboration opportunities between Russia, BRICS nations, and African countries, covering investments, scholarships, and trade initiatives. Participants explored sustainable projects and partnerships, encouraging young entrepreneurs to foster innovation, cross-border cooperation, and responsible global development for a more interconnected future.
Maritime talk charts the future course of local SBSR industry
25 February 2025
UTAR Faculty of Science, in collaboration with CILT Malaysia and UTAR Logistics & International Shipping Society, hosted En Nazery Khalid to discuss Malaysia’s shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry. The talk highlighted maritime history, key ports, industry players, and government support schemes, emphasizing the sector’s economic significance. Students learned about logistics, emerging technologies like AI, and industry opportunities, gaining insights into sustainable practices, industrial innovation, and career pathways that strengthen Malaysia’s maritime infrastructure and global trade connectivity.
Green talk educates SMJK Chong Hwa students on climate change
21 February 2025
UTAR highlighted the urgency of addressing global warming through a talk by Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat at SMJK Chong Hwa, Kuala Lumpur. The session educated students on climate change impacts such as rising temperatures, extreme weather, and melting glaciers, and emphasised practical actions to reduce carbon footprints, including energy conservation and waste reduction. By fostering environmental awareness and sustainable practices among youths, UTAR encourages proactive climate stewardship, empowering communities to contribute meaningfully to a greener, resilient future.
IPSR R&D Colloquium 2024
23 November 2024
The UTAR R&D Colloquium 2024 united researchers, industry experts, and students to exchange ideas and foster interdisciplinary collaboration under the theme “Challenges and Innovations in a Converging World.”
Organised by the Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Research, the event featured impactful keynote sessions,
parallel discussions, and a Postgraduate Pitching Competition highlighting creativity and innovation.
It strengthened collaboration across STEM, business, and social disciplines, driving scientific advancement and sustainable solutions for global challenges through research, technology, and societal integration.
Graphic design student wins bronze at SEA Kre8tif! Awards 2024 for heartwarming animation
2 October 2024
Congratulations to Natalie Lian Qianwei, a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Graphic Design and Multimedia student, for winning the Bronze award at the SEA Kre8tif! Awards 2024 in the Best Animation Shorts - Student category. The award ceremony was held at the Connexion Conference & Event Centre.Natalie Lian’s heartwarming tale of human-animal friendship, The Boy and Bear, stood out among 147 regional entries. Her achievement highlighted the exceptional creativity and talent nurtured in Southeast Asia’s creative industry, bringing pride to UTAR and further elevating the region’s standing in the global animation scene.
UTAR collaborates with NASA on SMAP calibration and validation programme
14 October 2024
UTAR reached a major milestone by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NASA to collaborate on the Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) Calibration and Validation Programme, strengthening research in environmental science and technology.
Through this partnership, UTAR and NASA jointly install advanced sensors and dataloggers to enhance soil moisture monitoring and improve climate data accuracy.The collaboration promotes knowledge exchange, sustainable agricultural innovation, and global scientific cooperation to better understand and mitigate environmental and climate-related challenges through advanced research and technology.
FBF wins Best Paper Award and Best Idea Award at 14th ASIP Conference
8 October 2024
UTAR Faculty of Business and Finance Master of Philosophy student Darren Peter, alongside Dr Azeyan binti Awee and Mr Mohan Selvaraju from Saito University College, won the Best Paper Award at the 14th ASIP Conference in Taiwan.Themed “Twin Transformation – Digital and Green”, the conference gathered academics and professionals from across Asia to share innovative solutions, advance entrepreneurship research, and foster academic collaboration.
The achievement highlights UTAR’s continued excellence in research, innovation, and thought leadership within the evolving digital and green economy landscape.
300 participants embark on a journey towards sustainability at Let's Hike with Zaneco-HOGA
10 September 2024
The We Want No Plastic project organised “Let’s Hike with Zaneco-HOGA” at Gaharu Tea Valley, uniting over 300 participants to promote environmental awareness and climate action through recreation and education. The event combined hiking, workshops, and a recyclable-themed fashion show to highlight the dangers of plastic pollution and encourage eco-friendly practices. Through collaboration with industry and community partners, participants learned how collective action and sustainable innovation can help reduce carbon impact and protect the planet’s ecosystems.
Lessons on nature conservation and ecotourism at Royal Belum State Park
30 July 2024
During a field trip to Royal Belum State Park, UTAR Tourism students explored the link between conservation, ecotourism, and sustainable development. Guided by faculty and local partners, they engaged with indigenous communities, learned about forest preservation, and gained first-hand insight into balancing tourism with environmental protection. Activities such as bamboo rafting, trekking, and cultural exchanges deepened their appreciation for biodiversity and community heritage while reinforcing the importance of responsible tourism and nature-based economic sustainability.
Fsc Department of agricultural and food science's first musk melons
30 November 2023
UTAR’s Faculty of Science celebrated the first harvest of musk melons at the Green House of Agriculture Park, Kampar Campus, guided by Dr Ali Yassoralipour and Hami Eco Farm Sdn Bhd. The initiative allows students to research sustainable food production, improve soil fertility, and increase yields while minimizing environmental impact. Through hands-on learning, students gain awareness of responsible farming practices, resource conservation, and environmentally friendly techniques that enhance productivity, support ecosystems, and promote long-term food security and community well-being.
UTAR staff promote nature journaling and give out air-purifying plants at Hari Sukan Negara
15 October 2023
UTAR participated as an exhibitor at the “Hari Sukan Negara Daerah Hulu Langat & Program Bandar Baru Bangi Pagi Tanpa Kenderaan 2023” at Taman Tasik Cempaka. Representatives from the Department of Student Affairs and Centre for Foundation Studies promoted nature journaling and encouraged the public to plant air-purifying indoor plants. Attendees actively engaged with the exhibits, and all plants were distributed. The UTAR Green Campus Committee received a certificate of appreciation from Majlis Perbandaran Kajang for their contribution to raising awareness on sustainability and fostering eco-friendly practices.
Public relations students promote sustainable recycling project at SJK (C) Kampung Bali, Tronoh
20 September 2023
Thirteen UTAR Public Relations undergraduates launched the “Sustainable Steps Recycling” project at SJK (C) Kampung Bali to educate students on environmental responsibility. The initiative, part of their CSR coursework, included interactive activities such as making self-watering plant devices and conservation signs from recycled materials. Experts explained recycling, energy conservation, and climate resilience. The project fostered practical learning for UTAR students while inspiring primary students to adopt sustainable habits, pledging ongoing environmental stewardship and promoting long-term climate-conscious practices.
Three Fsc students win at 13th MIFT National Food Science & Technology Competition 2023
5 August 2023
Three UTAR Faculty of Science students were recognised at the 13th MIFT National Food Science & Technology Competition. Master’s student Warakagoda Widanalage won second place for research on cellulose nanoparticles from palm kernel meal for sustainable active food packaging. Undergraduates Lorraine Ng and Loo Suet Yee received Top Scorer Achievement Awards in the Food Bowl Quiz. The competition highlighted innovative, resource-efficient food solutions, promoting waste reduction, sustainable production, and circular economy practices, while empowering students to develop knowledge, skills, and industry-relevant expertise.
Relevant Research Centres
Centre for Accounting, Banking & Finance
Centre for Climate Change and Disaster Risk Reduction
Centre for Environment and Green Technology
Centre for Entrepreneurial Sustainability
Centre for Economic Studies
Centre for Mathematical Sciences
Centre for Sustainable Design & Built Environment
Centre for Advanced and Sustainable Materials Research
Future Goals & Vision
- Achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
- Launch regional climate action network.
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