Goal 13 aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts; Climate change is a real and undeniable threat to our entire civilization, the effects are already visible and will be catastrophic unless we act now;
recognizing the importance of addressing this global challenge for the sake of environmental sustainability, social equity, and overall well-being. The university contributes to SDG 13 through various means:
Education in Climate Science, Environmental Sciences, and Sustainable Development: Al-Quds University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in climate science, environmental sciences, and sustainable development, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and address climate change challenges. These programs focus on topics such as climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience, preparing students for careers in various sectors.
Research on Climate Change and its Impacts: The university conducts research on issues related to climate change, including studies on greenhouse gas emissions, climate modeling, disaster risk reduction, and climate adaptation strategies. This research helps advance the understanding of climate change and its impacts, providing valuable insights for evidence-based policies and strategies.
Collaboration with Local and Global Stakeholders: Al-Quds University works with local and global stakeholders to address climate change challenges. Through joint research projects, workshops, and knowledge sharing, the university provides technical assistance and support to help these stakeholders develop and implement climate change mitigation and adaptation solutions.
Climate Action on Campus: The university is committed to reducing its own carbon footprint and promoting climate action on campus, implementing energy-efficient infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and sustainable transportation options for students, faculty, and staff. These efforts contribute to the university’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and serve as a model for other institutions and organizations.
Community Outreach and Capacity Building: Al-Quds University actively engages in community outreach programs that promote awareness about climate change and its impacts. These initiatives involve providing education and training to local communities on topics such as climate change mitigation, adaptation, and disaster risk reduction, empowering them to take action and build resilience to climate change.
Advocacy and Policy Development: Al-Quds University plays a key role in advocating for policies and strategies that promote climate action at local, national, and international levels.
Fostering Climate-Related Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The university supports the development and commercialization of innovative technologies, products, and services that can contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. This includes providing resources and support to researchers, entrepreneurs, and start-ups, such as incubators, accelerators, and funding opportunities, fostering a culture of climate-related innovation and entrepreneurship.
In summary, Al-Quds University is dedicated to achieving SDG 13 through a comprehensive approach that includes education, research, collaboration with local and global stakeholders, climate action on campus, community outreach and capacity building, advocacy and policy development, and fostering climate-related innovation and entrepreneurship. By taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, the university plays a vital role in fostering environmental sustainability, social equity, and overall well-being.
SDG 13 (Climate Action) Progress:
Al-Quds University’s endeavors in addressing SDG 13, Climate Action, showcase a holistic and progressive approach, encompassing education, research, practical implementation, and global participation.
Educational Programs: The university has integrated climate science and environmental sustainability into its higher education offerings, equipping future generations with the knowledge and skills to contribute to a sustainable planet. This is evident in their range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The courses delve into various aspects of climate science and environmental sustainability, leading to qualifications that are both locally accredited and internationally recognized. Specialized programs like the Master of Renewable Energy and Sustainability, Master of Water Science Innovations, and Bachelor of Professional in Solar Energy Technology demonstrate a focused effort to educate students in fields crucial for addressing climate change challenges.
Climate Action Plan: Al-Quds University’s robust Climate Action Plan, aimed at achieving climate-neutrality and net-zero emissions by 2050, aligns with the Paris Agreement’s targets. This plan commenced in 2016, with strategies to mitigate operational emissions (direct emissions from university activities) and value chain emissions (indirect emissions, including those from suppliers and investments). Significant efforts are being made to transition to renewable energy sources and electrify campus services, reduce operational emissions, and engage with suppliers to uphold sustainable practices. The plan sets ambitious targets for emission reductions by 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2050, reinforcing the university’s commitment to the global goal of limiting warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
Global Campaign Participation: Al-Quds University is a proud participant in the global “Race to Zero” campaign, reflecting its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This involvement signifies the university’s recognition of its critical role in educating and empowering its community to address the climate crisis. Such participation not only reinforces the university’s dedication to environmental sustainability and climate science but also positions it as an active contributor in the global fight against climate change.