UNM takes key step toward advancing sustainability with Greenhouse Gas Inventory release

The University of New Mexico (UNM) has released its first Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory in a decade, offering a snapshot of the institution's carbon footprint and signaling its commitment to environmental sustainability.

This GHG inventory is one of the first measurement tools that is part of a process to develop a five-year UNM environmental sustainability plan, which is a major initiative of UNM 2040, specifically Goal 4: Sustainability. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) from human activities are the most significant driver of observed climate change since the mid-20th century.

The data reveals progress in reducing emissions while providing baseline data for future climate action. Since Fiscal Year 2006, UNM's Main Campus has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 11%, even with increased building square footage. When measured by emissions per square foot, the campus achieved a 25% reduction, highlighting the impact of energy efficiency measures, LEED-certified building standards, and a reduction in carbon emissions from UNM's purchased electricity from PNM. The largest source of emissions considered in this inventory is the boilers and cogeneration units at the Ford Utilities Center on Main Campus.

"This inventory gives us an understanding of where we stand and areas where we can have the most impact in reducing carbon emissions," said Anne Jakle, UNM's director of Sustainability, a position the university created in March 2024. "This inventory and other baseline data we have gathered and will make available to the university community are foundational tools that will allow UNM to set sustainability targets and make informed decisions about sustainability priorities based on accurate data."

A Collaborative Effort
The GHG inventory was conducted in response to campus community input. The Associated Students of the University of New Mexico (ASUNM), Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA), UNM Faculty Senate, and UNM Staff Council have, in recent years, released resolutions calling for UNM to bolster sustainability efforts, particularly with regard to reducing the university's carbon footprint.

"The greenhouse gas inventory at UNM is more than a measure of emissions-it's a critical step toward environmental justice," said Feleecia Guillen, director of Environmental Affairs for ASUNM. "By mapping out our impacts, we show our dedication to listening to and actively involving students in our climate action strategies. This approach ensures that our sustainability efforts are inclusive and equitable, reflecting the diverse voices of our university community."

In addition to the Office of Sustainability, other entities within UNM's Institutional Support Services, Lobo Energy Inc. and UNM Utility Services, were crucial partners in collecting and analyzing the necessary data to create the inventory.

A Framework for Action
This inventory is part of a broader effort to advance environmental sustainability efforts at UNM. Over the next year, the newly formed Office of Sustainability will obtain UNM's first-ever Sustainability Tracking and Assessment Rating System (STARS) designation and engage the campus community in a Sustainability Strategic Planning process. Through interviews, focus groups, a campus-wide survey, public meetings with campus stakeholders, and convening a steering committee, the Office of Sustainability will collect input on the strategic direction UNM should take for its environmental sustainability efforts.

"Universities like UNM are at the forefront of creating sustainable futures," said Teresa Costantinidis, executive vice president for Finance and Administration. "Our commitment to sustainability not only reinforces financial stewardship and promotes community well-being, but it also strengthens our role as a leader in education and innovation."

The UNM Office of Sustainability has posted the GHG inventory on the Office of Sustainability website. Campus community members are encouraged to review the findings and participate in ongoing conversations about sustainability strategic planning at UNM.

"This is just the first step in assessing UNM's sustainability achievements and gaps," said Jakle. "Through collaborations among all campus stakeholders, we can create a more sustainable UNM that benefits our campus, the State of New Mexico, and positively impacts the planet."

For more information, visit the UNM Office of Sustainability.