Climate positive

Since FY 2019, ASU has maintained climate neutrality for Scope 1 and 2 emissions1. This was implemented several years before ASU’s 2025 climate-neutral commitment date to recognize the increasing severity of the climate crisis. However, this action does not represent an endpoint. ASU will continue to reduce its gross emissions from all scopes. Compared to FY 2007, ASU has reduced net emissions for Scopes 1, 2 and 32 by 91% per 1,000 square feet of building space and 90% per student.

ASU accomplished climate neutrality through a portfolio approach, including:

• Purchase of renewable energy and renewable-energy certificates from large-scale off-site generation facilities.

• Renewable energy with on-site solar generation.

• Sustainable building design and construction.

• Carbon offsets coupled with local tree plantings in partnership with the cities of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe.

1 Scope 1 emissions result primarily from combusting natural gas to generate heat and electricity for university buildings and from university vehicles. Scope 2 emissions come from external utility providers that supply ASU with electricty and chilled water.

2 Scope 3 emissions primarily occur in third-party commuting and air travel associated with ASU operations.

ASU net greenhouse gas emissions and building space

FY 2007 — FY 2022

ASU has reduced net emissions for Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 91% per 1,000 square feet of building space.