Latest news with #SustainabilityActionPlan
Gulf Today
30-06-2025
- Science
- Gulf Today
Varsity on track to achieve sustainability goals
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub – a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy.
Arabian Post
30-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
AURAK Leads UAE Universities in Eco‑Performance
Greenlogue/AP The American University of Ras Al Khaimah has emerged as the top performer among universities in the United Arab Emirates, recording the lowest greenhouse gas emissions under its five‑year Sustainability Action Plan. Spanning 1.3 million‑1.6 million sq ft, the campus integrates a series of targeted initiatives aimed at deep energy and operational efficiency, positioning the university as a rising model of institutional sustainability. Analysis of the latest greenhouse gas emissions report—conducted by consultancy ZeeDimension and commissioned by AURAK—shows that the university's per‑square‑foot emissions are significantly lower than those recorded at its regional peers. While most UAE universities report emissions averaging well above AURAK's baseline, AURAK's data reveal a markedly leaner carbon profile. ADVERTISEMENT The SAP, first introduced two months ago by AURAK, outlines four strategic pillars: energy efficiency, green building practices, waste reduction, and sustainable transport. It incorporates a campus‑wide carbon accounting protocol which captures emissions across Scopes 1 and 2 and guides targeted improvements. Central to this plan is the comprehensive carbon footprint assessment released in the 2023–24 academic year, offering a granular breakdown across departmental operations. The audit covers direct emissions from on‑site natural gas, heating systems and electricity consumption, as well as indirect emissions from purchased energy. To complement its emissions strategy, AURAK has made sustained investments in renewable energy and building optimisation. The university is outfitting key structures with photovoltaic panels and energy‑efficient fixtures, whilst green retrofits in older buildings aim to reduce energy consumption by up to 30 per cent. Campus lighting and HVAC systems are being upgraded with advanced control mechanisms to ensure demand aligns tightly with need. The SAP also sets mobility targets. Through improved cycling infrastructure and shuttle services, AURAK seeks to encourage a shift from private vehicle use—currently one of the heaviest emission categories—to carpooling and shared transport options. Meanwhile, student‑led campaigns promote behavioural shifts, including paper‑less administration and heightened waste‑segregation practices. Operational transparency has been bolstered by annual emissions reporting, which helps track the university's progress. Although no absolute reduction target has been publicised yet, the benchmark established by the 2023‑24 footprint will inform future goal‑setting, with benchmarked scores compared across UAE institutions. AURAK's leadership frames the SAP not simply as institutional compliance but as a beacon for wider UAE ambitions. The nation-wide commitment to environmental sustainability, encapsulated by national net‑zero aspirations by 2050, receives local reinforcement through campuses like AURAK. Student representatives and faculty experts say sustainability is fast becoming a core academic and cultural value. A final‑year engineering student, speaking off‑record, noted that AURAK's eco‑projects are shaping curriculum components, enabling hands‑on learning in areas such as energy modelling and environmental design. External partners, from local municipalities to private sector sponsors, are being invited to collaborate on demonstration projects around renewable micro‑grids and green water systems. Critics observe that while initial data are promising, the university must maintain momentum in addressing Scope 3 emissions—particularly those related to commuting, supply chains, and air travel. So far the SAP has kept its focus on Scopes 1 and 2, where control is feasible and data are robust. Yet full sustainability leadership demands broader engagement. To sustain its momentum, AURAK has committed to delivering annual updates on its SAP outcomes, with transparent metrics across all four pillars. It is also preparing to engage in third‑party verification from accredited environmental auditors in the coming year to ensure credibile GHG reductions. Governance at the university has shifted to integrate sustainability across departments. A cross‑functional sustainability committee now oversees project approval, while resource allocation for ecology efforts is embedded in annual budgeting cycles. The institution has also integrated Glasgow Accord benchmarks and UN Sustainable Development Goals into its programme reviews.
Web Release
30-06-2025
- Science
- Web Release
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest Greenhouse Gas emissions among UAE universities
The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO?e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO?e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub — a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy. AURAK has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Center for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organized several training programs and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills.
Mid East Info
29-06-2025
- Science
- Mid East Info
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest Greenhouse Gas emissions among UAE universities
Spread across 1.3 million sq. ft., the University is proactively implementing a five-year Sustainability Action Plan RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE, June: The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub — a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy. AURAK has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Center for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organized several training programs and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills. About the American University of Ras Al Khaimah: The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit, public university that offers a comprehensive set of accredited and internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on holistic education and practical knowledge, AURAK prepares students to become global citizens who are innovators in their respective fields. Through partnerships with top global universities and organizations, AURAK provides students unparalleled opportunities to gain international exposure and experience.
Al Etihad
29-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest greenhouse gas emissions
29 June 2025 17:33 RAS AL KHAIMAH (WAM) The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂ university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, Prof. Stephen Wilhite, said, 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.'Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, said, 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validate our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting-edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.'AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's "Barjeel" regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub -- a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Centre for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organised several training programmes and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills.
