Climate & Sustainability Action Plan

Sustainability at Penn

Working collaboratively with our students, staff and faculty, Penn Sustainability aims to foster innovation, empower future leaders, and recognize advancements in University-wide social, environmental and economic change. As a commitment of the entire Penn community, Penn Sustainability serves as the central hub for our 12 schools, campus groups, and community members who oversee programs and policies working toward a sustainable, healthy, and vibrant campus.   

With a long history of conscious green efforts, our commitment to sustainability can be traced back to key milestones. Penn is proud to have been the first Ivy League school to have the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) signed by our President in 2007. We worked quickly to live up to this commitment, developing our first climate action plan in 2009.   

As a globally renowned research University, it’s no secret that Penn’s sustainability initiatives are an integral part of our work for the global good. And as a student here, you’ll be able to jump right into the fight for a more sustainable future for all.  

Climate and Sustainable Action Plan

Penn’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan is our roadmap to a cleaner future.  

Penn’s Climate and Sustainability Action Plan (4.0) unites our entire University community in a common mission to shift towards more sustainable practices and policies.  The Climate & Sustainability Action Plan (CSAP) outlines our intent and action to mitigate climate impacts, adapt to emerging environmental conditions, and prepare our university—and our students—to lead in a rapidly evolving world. One such goal, a 100% carbon-neutral campus by 2042, is ambitious yet achievable through the many programs and initiatives led by Penn Sustainability. 

The University's signing of the Presidents’ Climate Commitment in 2007 charged Penn to develop a strategic plan outlining the University’s goals for carbon reduction. Penn’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) was unveiled in 2009 and set the roadmap for Penn’s work toward environmental sustainability through efforts in seven areas: Academics, Utilities & Operations, Physical Environment, Waste & Recycling, Purchasing, Transportation, and Outreach & Engagement. 

To stay current with technologies and climate challenges, our action plan is updated every five years with new goals, progress, and strategies. Today in its fourth iteration, the CSAP continues to outline our plan to combat climate change and adapt to environmental shifts for a more sustainable future.  

Since launching the first Climate Action Plan in 2009, Penn has seen significant progress, notably in student and faculty engagement. And with a new plan being released every five years, our goals and expectations continue to grow, mobilizing our community even further in our journey towards a cleaner and healthier future.