The University of Vigo completes the first MPA4Change carbon footprint assessment, revealing travel as the main CO₂ contributor on carbon emissions related to this project. MPA4Change partners discuss strategies to reduce emissions and improve sustainability practices in future activities, reinforcing their commitment to eco-friendly solutions.
Anthropogenic emissions of carbon and other greenhouse gases that contribute to climate warming are the main symptoms of the unsustainability of human activities. Tackling these issues is a crucial step in promoting a healthy planet.
For this reason, there is a growing need to evaluate the effectiveness of publicly funded projects such as MPA4Change, not only in terms of scientific output but also from the lens of sustainability. With the active participation of all project partners, the University of Vigo completed the first carbon footprint assessment for the initial six-month reporting period.
The methodology followed was developed by ZeroCO2MED, a group dedicated to creating a carbon footprint accounting approach paired with a user-friendly tool, specifically designed for projects funded under the Euro-MED Program 2021–2027. This methodology captures indirect emissions across all scopes, arising from partner activities within six main areas: Travel, Food & Drinks, Office (Labour), Event Venues, Accommodation, and Dissemination Materials.
Upon completing the online tool’s calculator requirements, the project’s carbon emission metrics are generated, alongside recommendations for mitigation and offsetting strategies.
First findings
Graph showing CO2 source emissions by group – image provided by Future Oceans Lab, University of Vigo.
The initial results show that travel is the dominant contributor to CO₂ emissions, far outweighing all other categories. This underscores the significant environmental impact of transportation activities related to project operations. Accommodation follows as the second-largest source, reflecting the energy use associated with lodgings. Food & drinks rank third in contribution, highlighting the environmental impact of catering and food choice during project activities. Other categories such as communication materials, events, office & smart working, and other emission sources contribute far less to total emissions.
It is important to note that these findings are preliminary and reflect project activities rather than the routine practices of the partners. The results are influenced by necessary project actions, such as meetings and events, which contribute substantially to the overall carbon footprint.
Group discussion
In light of the results, a discussion group was formed to address the main activities contributing to the highest emissions and to brainstorm solutions. During an online meeting, partners proposed several strategies:
- Opt to hold future meetings in central locations that are easily accessible for all partners, aiming to use direct flights, trains, or buses.
- Coordinate travel so that if the meeting venue is far from the airport, a collective bus can be arranged, minimizing individual travel via taxi, bus, or train.
- Prioritize vegetarian catering for coffee breaks to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food.
- Select accommodations close to the venue for in-person meetings to limit the need for additional travel.
Ongoing commitment
By conducting this assessment for each reporting period, MPA4Change will be able to track its carbon footprint and implement measures to reduce it over time. By working together with all partners and making conscious improvements to project activities, we can strengthen our collective commitment to sustainability and help minimize our environmental impact.
