Majmaah University Climate Action Policy
1. Purpose
Majmaah University is committed to addressing climate change through proactive, evidence-based, and community-driven actions. This Climate Action Policy outlines the university’s strategic approach to reducing its carbon footprint, enhancing climate literacy, and promoting environmental sustainability in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
2. Scope
This policy applies to all campuses, departments, faculty, staff, students, and affiliated entities of Majmaah University. It governs decision-making, planning, operations, infrastructure development, and academic initiatives with respect to climate impact.
3. Core Objectives
· Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Implement energy efficiency measures, renewable energy projects, and green infrastructure to minimize emissions from university operations.
· Integrate Climate Education: Incorporate climate science, sustainability, and adaptation strategies across curricula, research programs, and student engagement initiatives.
· Sustainable Campus Operations: Promote low-impact practices in transportation, waste management, water conservation, procurement, and construction.
· Community and Regional Engagement: Lead and support climate action efforts in collaboration with local authorities, schools, businesses, and civil society.
· Monitor and Report Progress: Track emissions, energy use, and other sustainability metrics and publish annual climate impact reports.
4. Key Action Areas
A. Energy and Infrastructure
· Conduct regular energy audits across all facilities.
· Transition to LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC systems.
· Explore solar energy installations on university buildings.
· Set targets for net-zero emissions by 2050 (or earlier).
B. Climate Literacy and Research
· Offer interdisciplinary courses on climate change and environmental management.
· Support faculty and student research on climate adaptation, water scarcity, desert ecology, and renewable energy.
· Host workshops and public seminars via the CIFAL Saudi Arabia Center.
C. Sustainable Mobility
· Promote carpooling, electric vehicles, and cycling.
· Improve walkability and public transport access across campuses.
D. Waste and Resource Management
· Establish robust recycling and composting programs.
· Eliminate single-use plastics from university premises.
· Implement digital alternatives to reduce paper use.
E. Water Conservation
· Install low-flow fixtures and greywater recycling systems.
· Monitor water usage and educate campus users on conservation.
5. Governance and Oversight
· The Climate Action Steering Committee—under the Office of the Vice Rector for Development and Investment—will oversee policy implementation and ensure coordination across departments.
· Designated Sustainability Officers in each college or department will act as climate liaisons.
· Progress will be reviewed bi-annually and reported to university leadership.
6. Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
Majmaah University will maintain transparency through:
· Public access to annual sustainability reports.
· Participation in national and international sustainability rankings.
· Continuous feedback channels for staff, students, and community members.
7. Review and Update
This policy will be reviewed every two years to incorporate new technologies, practices, and feedback. Updates will be approved by the University Council and aligned with evolving national and international climate commitments.