The building patrimony of the University of Antwerp represents 19% of the university's total carbon footprint (8% is contained in renovations and new construction and 11% in energy consumption - mainly natural gas). The university has already taken important steps, including situation sketches and condition overviews of all buildings, setting up monitoring systems for energy consumption, and a consultation process with the faculties regarding space optimization. Thanks to the purchase of 100% green electricity since 2021 and the (temporary) limitation of heating temperature to 19°C in winter, CO2e emissions have decreased by more than half since 2017.
Breakthrough action 2025-2026
The breakthrough action for 2025-2026 involves giving these actions a broader framework through the development of a long-term spatial and patrimony strategy. With such a strategy, objectives, possible trajectories, and their financial implications can be integrated, to work effectively, coherently, and cost-effectively towards the sustainable infrastructure we need to facilitate excellent education and cutting-edge research.
The ambition is to achieve a minimum 75% CO2e reduction by 2030 compared to 2018, and to phase out all fossil fuels for heating by 2050, with renovation and new construction projects proceeding as circularly as possible. At this moment - with the current buildings, upcoming plans, and allocated financial resources - these ambitions remain out of reach.
Get involved!
Do you work in a lab, where there is potential for further sustainability in terms of energy or water? Let us know climate@uantwerpen.be.