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KTH's Climate Goals and the Pathway to Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions

KTH is in a crucial phase of its climate and sustainability transition. Through clear objectives, the Climate Framework, and systematic remedial action, the university is taking responsibility for contributing to sustainable societal development. KTH's goal is to reduce its total climate impact by 60 per cent (Scope 1, 2, and 3) by 2030, and subsequently achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 at the latest – in accordance with national and international commitments.

KTH's Climate Goals 2026–2030

KTH's sustainability and climate goals for the 2026–2030 period entail that sustainable development shall permeate the entirety of its operations – research, education, and day-to-day activities.

To achieve the target of a 60 per cent reduction in climate impact by 2030, KTH is driving a number of prioritised initiatives that directly contribute to reducing emissions from its own operations. These measures are outlined in the action plan under efficient and sustainable use of resources (kth.se) . This includes, among other things, a substantial reduction in emissions from business travel, more energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable procurement. Focus is also placed on circularity and reuse in everyday operations – including through spatial optimisation, circular material flows, and the reuse of furniture and furnishings.

Taking Action – From Strategy to Implementation

To reach these climate goals, KTH is working with a broad spectrum of concrete measures, such as:

  • The introduction of a carbon budget for air travel.

  • Energy efficiency improvements in buildings.

  • Sustainable procurement procedures incorporating climate requirements.

  • An increased focus on circular flows and the reuse of materials and furnishings.

Higher Education Institutions Collaborating for the Climate

KTH has signed the Climate Framework for Higher Education Institutions (V-2019-0572). The higher education institutions that have signed the framework view the climate as a crucial and prioritised issue for the future. Within the higher education institutions' climate network, the sector is working to contribute to the societal transition in line with the Paris Agreement. Read more about the Climate Framework here (kth.se) .

KTH's Climate Report

KTH monitors its total carbon footprint in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Read more in KTH's Climate Report here (kth.se) .

Looking Ahead – The Pathway to Net-Zero

While KTH has made progress in reducing emissions from electricity, heating, and cooling, further measures are required to reach the climate goals. The university must address the significant emissions from purchased goods and services, as well as business travel and commuting, in order to make substantial progress towards its climate targets. KTH also needs to develop a plan for how residual emissions are to be balanced.