Active participation in the National Program highlights the University's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and adapting to climate change.

The University of Cauca has been recognized for its participation in the National Program for Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience, particularly at the level of greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory quantification. This achievement, accomplished by the team from the Environmental Management Area, affiliated with the Center for Quality Management and Institutional Accreditation, underscores the institution's commitment to sustainability and the fight against climate change.

In a context of growing concern over the adverse effects of climate change, the National Program aims to strengthen national adaptation and mitigation capacity. From March to July 2024, the University of Cauca, through a training and advisory process provided by the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, developed a detailed inventory of its CO2 emissions, using international standard tools to calculate the tons of greenhouse gases emitted. “Important lessons were learned from this experience that will be applied within the institution, such as identifying which mission activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and the importance of training the university community to take on the commitment of mitigating these emissions through our daily activities,” said María Alexandra Muñoz, head of the Environmental Management Area at the University of Cauca.

This process was carried out using methodologies and tools based on international standards. "To achieve the calculation, we reviewed each mission activity according to the defined scopes in the methodology. Thanks to this process, we obtained an inventory that quantifies the greenhouse gas emissions of the University," stated Diana Maribel Erazo, a member of the Environmental Management Area team.

This inventory is a key piece for implementing effective emission reduction strategies and promoting sustainable practices within the university community. The University's active participation in this program reflects a deep commitment to climate change adaptation and reducing its carbon footprint.

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This recognition is part of a broader effort by the government and various public entities to enhance knowledge management on climate change and foster a coordinated and effective response. Building on this achievement, in the second semester of 2024, the University will continue to work on creating an action plan to mitigate its CO2 emissions and raise awareness within its community about the importance of reducing environmental impact.

It is worth noting that these processes contribute to meeting the Environmental Policy’s goals to promote sustainability and institutional responsibility, adapting standards to contemporary challenges and fostering environmental awareness through attitude changes aimed at reducing risks associated with climate change effects. The National Program for Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience continues to promote collaboration among institutions to strengthen the country's capacity to face climate change challenges, and the University of Cauca’s participation is a clear example of this collective effort.

Written by:

Carlos Pérez