Universities and Colleges join the Race to Zero ahead of COP26

13th April 2021

What is Race to Zero? 

Race To Zero is a global campaign to rally leadership and support from businesses, cities, regions, investors for a healthy, resilient, zero carbon recovery that prevents future threats, creates decent jobs, and unlocks inclusive, sustainable growth.

Led by the High-Level Climate Champions for Climate Action – Nigel Topping and Gonzalo Muñoz– it mobilizes a coalition of leading net zero initiatives, representing cities, regions, businesses, the biggest investors, and universities and colleges. These ‘real economy’ actors join 120 countries in the largest ever alliance committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the latest. Collectively these actors now cover nearly 25% global CO2 emissions and over 50% GDP.

The objective is to build momentum around the shift to a decarbonized economy ahead of COP26, where governments must strengthen their contributions to the Paris Agreement. This will send governments a resounding signal that business, cities, regions, investors and universities and colleges are united in meeting the Paris goals and creating a more inclusive and resilient economy.

What is the role of higher and further education?

By joining the Race to Zero, you will help demonstrate both the higher and further education sector’s commitment to the net zero agenda as well as your institution’s leadership on a global level at COP26 in November 2021.
There are over 25,000 universities and numerous colleges across the world, together we make a huge impact and can be a force for change. We need to take action now. Commit today by completing this form.

By joining you are committing to the following Race to Zero criteria:

• Pledge: having a 2050 or sooner net zero target
• Plan: explain what steps will be taken toward achieving net zero
• Proceed: taking action towards net zero
• Publish: commit to report progress annually

Sign the Race to Zero as part of your response to COP26!