Quebec Universities Unite for Climate Action at COP30 in Brazil

As the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) unfolds in Belém, Brazil, eighteen universities from Quebec are taking a unified stand on climate change. They emphasize the urgency of the climate crisis and the necessity for collaborative action to address this global challenge. This initiative highlights an ongoing commitment among higher education institutions to lead the transition towards a resilient and low-carbon society.

The mobilization among Quebec universities builds on previous commitments made during COP25 in 2019. At that time, the majority of these institutions endorsed the Global Declaration of Higher Education Institutions for the Climate. This declaration outlines three significant commitments: achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, strengthening research focused on climate solutions, and enhancing access to environmental education. These goals aim to foster sustainable development both within academic curricula and community initiatives.

Concrete Actions and Achievements

Since adopting the declaration, Quebec’s universities have implemented a range of initiatives that demonstrate their leadership in sustainability. Notable achievements include significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through energy efficiency programs, sustainable mobility solutions, and eco-friendly building designs. Several institutions have already achieved net-zero emissions for their Scope 1 and 2 emissions, setting a benchmark for others.

Additionally, universities have integrated innovative training on climate change response into various curricula. They have conducted a series of free webinars to share Quebec’s expertise in climate change, highlighting the importance of collaboration in climate action. Comprehensive climate analyses and adaptation plans have been developed, supported by a collaborative guide for assessing campus vulnerabilities.

The universities have also worked together on responsible procurement practices. This collaboration has improved transparency in supply chains, particularly concerning Scope 3 GHG emissions and the fight against forced labor. Furthermore, they have adopted responsible investment strategies, reflecting their commitment to sustainable practices.

Addressing Indirect Emissions and Future Research

The universities that comprise the Quebec University Network for Sustainable Development (RUQDD) are currently developing a methodological guide to quantify indirect GHG emissions. These emissions, often the most challenging to measure, are linked to university activities but fall outside of direct control. The publication of this guide in the coming weeks is expected to enhance accountability regarding these emissions.

Quebec universities are also pivotal in generating knowledge and solutions to mitigate climate change. Through multidisciplinary research teams, they are exploring innovative approaches in renewable energy, ecosystem adaptation, infrastructure resilience, climate justice, and environmental governance. By fostering partnerships with communities, governments, and businesses, they are actively contributing to Quebec’s socio-ecological transition and the achievement of both national and international climate targets.

Participating institutions include:

– École de technologie supérieure
– École nationale d’administration publique
– HEC Montréal
– Institut national de la recherche scientifique
– Polytechnique Montréal
– Université Bishop’s
– Université de Concordia
– Université de Montréal
– Université de Sherbrooke
– Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue
– Université du Québec à Chicoutimi
– Université du Québec à Montréal
– Université du Québec à Rimouski
– Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
– Université du Québec en Outaouais
– Université Laval
– Université McGill
– Université TÉLUQ

For further information, contact:

Patrice Cordeau, Assistant Vice-Rector for Sustainable Development, Université de Sherbrooke, patric.cordeau [at] usherbrooke.ca, 819-571-5537

Aurélie Boucher, Media Relations Office, McGill University, aurelie.boucher [at] mcgill.ca