Electricity consumption reduced: University of Graz well on track

The University of Graz is working to continuously improve its environmental performance. The goal: climate neutrality by 2040. Photo: University of Graz/Julina Raggautz

This year, the University of Graz has once again received EMAS certification. Since the introduction of this environmental management system in 2016, the seal of approval has been renewed every three years after successful audits. As an EMAS-certified organisation, the university is committed to systematically improving its environmental performance and contributing to sustainable development at all levels. Progress is documented in the annual environmental statement. The statement for 2024 was recently published. Particularly pleasing: electricity consumption was the lowest since EMAS records began.

From successful measures to promote climate-friendly mobility to the Graz Centre of Physics, a showcase project for sustainable construction – the University of Graz is taking responsibility for a liveable future in all areas. The annual environmental statement shows what this means in concrete terms. It provides information on goals, measures and important environmental indicators, such as energy consumption, CO₂ emissions and waste volumes. “With this report, we create transparency, make our activities visible and at the same time strengthen awareness of sustainable action in society,” says Rector Peter Riedler.

The fact that the University of Graz was able to reduce its electricity consumption in 2024 despite an increase in floor space is thanks to numerous small and large measures. These include increasing energy efficiency, for example by switching to LED lighting in many areas, and reducing staff presence during the Christmas period. However, more intensive efforts are still needed in the areas of district heating consumption and business mobility. Emissions have risen again in these areas, which is also reflected in the overall greenhouse gas balance.

One of the highlights of 2024 is the development of a strategy to promote biodiversity across the entire campus. In this way, the University of Graz is making an important contribution to increasing species diversity. The campus areas connect the Stadtpark and Schlossberg with Rosenberg, Hilmteich and Leechwald as stepping stone biotopes. To improve their function in the green corridor, additional refuges and habitats for flora and fauna are being created in collaboration with experts.

Environmental Statement of the University of Graz 2024.pdf

Ökoprofit seal of approval
One visible sign of the university's commitment and successes in environmental and climate protection is the Ökoprofit seal of approval. At the end of November 2025, the city of Graz once again awarded it to the University of Graz for its “very detailed and exemplary decarbonisation strategy. The 630 newly planned bicycle parking spaces, the planting of numerous trees and the dismantling of car parking spaces at the Centre of Physics are exemplary,” according to the commission's statement. The university has been participating in this programme since 2005. As part of Ökoprofit, it receives support in the form of environmental consulting, training courses on various sustainability topics and the opportunity to exchange best practice examples with other companies that carry this seal of approval.

In addition, since 2024, the University of Graz has been part of a network of around 100 organisations, companies and associations in Graz that have signed the “Climate Pact #bindabei”. The common goal: climate neutrality by 2040.

Comprehensive information about the university's goals, activities and achievements in climate and environmental protection can be found on the website “Climate-Neutral Uni Graz”.

Gudrun Pichler

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