Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatearen ingurumen-aztarna azterketa: etorkizunera begirako eta COVID-19aren irakaskuntza-agertokiak: Exploring the Environmental Footprint of the University of the Basque Country / Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea: future and COVID19 teaching scenarios

Abstract

This article presents the key findings of the environmental footprint of the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), exploring future scenarios and those arising from COVID19. Data from 2016 was gathered for energy consumption, materials, waste generation, and transport needs. All three campuses – Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa – and nearly all users (96.8% of 46,813) were considered for 2016/17 academic year. This data breakdown includes 89.1% students, 11.0% teaching/research staff, and 3.9% administration/service staff. Life cycle modeling was performed using OpenLCA software, Ecoinvent database, and CML Midpoint methodology. Transportation is the larger contributor to the environmental footprint, accounting for around 60% across most categories measured. While the contribution of energy and materials consumption is lower overall, computer and information technology equipment emerge as significant contributors. The Leioa Campus generally has the highest environmental impact per user compared to other UPV/EHU urban centers and faculties, mainly due to transportation and waste treatment. The COVID19 pandemic scenarios, "Confinement" and "Edonon" (reduced face-to-face activity), lowered the environmental footprint, primarily due to a reduction in transportation as mobility was limited. However, increased room ventilation resulted in higher energy consumption. Additionally, to facilitate semi-classroom teaching, acquiring new computers was necessary. The results of future teaching scenarios and those derived from COVID-19 coincide: mobility should be reduced and public transport should be promoted. Therefore, environmental footprint is an effective tool for proposing sustainability improvements. However, for a more comprehensive approach, a deeper analysis and collaboration across the entire university community, beyond just management, are necessary.

Full-text of the article is available for this locale: Euskara.