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UMD Reaches Carbon Neutrality

Well done, TerpsGraphic of SustainableUMD turtle with a cloud and arrows to represent carbon neutrality

 

Thanks to the collective efforts of university leadership and the SustainableUMD Network, the University of Maryland is proud to announce that as of April 22nd, 2025 we have achieved carbon neutrality,  fulfilling a commitment made in 2007 to eliminate net greenhouse gas emissions from university operations. This milestone reflects UMD's dedication to environmental sustainability and its leadership in addressing climate change through strategic carbon management.​

UMD's journey toward carbon neutrality has been guided by its Climate Action Plan (CAP), first established in 2009. This comprehensive plan outlines strategies for continual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. In 2021, President Pines accelerated the university's carbon neutrality target from 2050 to 2025, underscoring UMD's commitment to environmental stewardship.

 

UMD has a duty to address the grand challenges of our time, including climate change. 

Dr. Darryll Pines Standing on McKeldin Mall
President Pines

 

Our Notable Climate Accomplishments

Miniature mascots: UMD class uses diamondback terrapin hatchlings to teach climate change                   Picture by John Consoli
  • Reducing net greenhouse gas emissions 55% from 2005 to 2022
  • Procuring 100% renewable-sourced grid electricity as of 2020, eliminating all university scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions
  • Constructing or renovating 23 buildings to LEED-silver equivalent or higher
  • Reducing per-plate emissions 14.4% on average as part of the Coolfood Pledge
  • Educating >20,000 students in their first semester at UMD about sustainability challenges and opportunities
  • Awarding >$4 million in Sustainability Fund Grants to students, staff, and faculty to develop sustainable academic, research, and operations programs

Our Strategy

As part of its sustainability strategy, UMD is reducing its reliance on gasoline and diesel in its vehicle fleet, modernizing its campus district energy system, and incorporating energy conservation measures into campus operations. While these long-term infrastructure improvements are in progress, a robust carbon offset program will serve as an interim solution to help mitigate emissions and address climate change.

UMD has also prioritized transparency and accountability in measuring its carbon footprint and the diversified portfolio of high-quality verified offset project credits that the university purchases. These resources serve as a learning opportunity for the campus community and allow for ongoing assessment of progress and continuous improvement. 

 

Next Steps

Achieving carbon neutrality is a significant milestone, and UMD recognizes that the work does not stop here. The university remains committed to advancing sustainability, reducing its environmental impact, and serving as a model for institutions worldwide. Through continued innovation, collaboration, and education, UMD will persist in its efforts to address the pressing challenges of climate change to promote a sustainable future for all.

 

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Collection of metal and plastic 3-D printed materials including an M and mini blue Testudo statues
Funding Sustainable Projects
​The University of Maryland's Sustainability Fund grant enabled Terrapin Works to implement innovative waste-reduction initiatives by funding the development of a mold to recycle 3D printing plastic into reusable sheets for ENES100 student projects.
Tanzania project
Taking on Humanity's Grand Challenges
​The University of Maryland's Grand Challenges Grants program is funding the Global FEWture Alliance, which develops holistic, technology- and policy-based solutions to enhance climate resilience and protect global public health by addressing the interconnected challenges of food, energy, and water systems.
dining
Slashing Food-Related Emissions
Dining Services at UMD is the world’s first university to join the Coolfood Pledge and a member of the Menus of Change University Research Collaborative, initiatives working to move people toward healthier and more sustainable food.
bike
Strengthening Micromobility Options
​The University of Maryland has been designated a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists, recognizing its extensive micromobility initiatives—including the BikeUMD program, which offers bike rentals, free maintenance, safety classes, and commuter incentives—to promote sustainable and active transportation across campus.
advisor presentation
Sustainability Outreach
Since 2008, undergraduate students in the Sustainability Advisors program have taught an introductory sustainability lesson to over 20,000 students.
Solar panels on Terrapin Trail Garage
Increasing the Campus Supply of Clean Energy
UMD generates renewable energy on campus through 3 MW of solar panels installed on buildings and parking canopies. Since 2020, 100% of UMD's purchased power is renewably sourced.
Iribe
Green Buildings
Campus construction incorporated high performance and green building design principles, with new buildings and major renovations required to meet LEED Silver standard or above.
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