Pitt Joins U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Climate Challenge

The University of Pittsburgh recently joined the over 175 partners pursuing bold, measurable action against climate change and taking part in the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Better Climate Challenge . 

In doing so, Pitt reaffirmed its own commitment to carbon neutrality by 2037 and support for broader national climate action.

As part of the Better Climate Challenge, Pitt officially committed to reducing Pittsburgh campus Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 50% within 10 years (between FY22 and FY32) — and will work with DOE to share successful GHG reduction strategies. These goals are in line with existing Pitt Climate Action Plan strategies, while also helping put focus on steam use reduction, production and procurement of renewable electricity, and fleet vehicle efficiency and electrification.

The Better Climate Challenge is the U.S. government’s platform that recognizes organizations with ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing transparency, accountability and collaboration to find pathways toward decarbonization. 

The DOE will support the University with technical assistance and Pitt will engage with Better Climate Challenge’s peer-to-peer learning opportunities.  

In addition to the Better Climate Challenge, the University of Pittsburgh has been Pittsburgh 2030 District Property Partner since 2014, a commitment through which Pitt has made consistent progress towards reducing building-related energy and water use intensity 50% by 2030 (below national and regional baselines, respectively).

Learn more about the DOE’s Better Climate Challenge.