Study and Comparison of Carbon Footprint Emissions at a Higher Education Institute in India

Abstract

This study involves in the assessment and comparison of carbon footprint emissions at a higher education institute in India. The key factors considered were the contributions of electricity usage, canteen facility operations, and transportation. The institute considered for study had an average population of 5871 students and 601 staff members, aims to assess the environmental impact of its activities. For the academic year finishing in 2023, the assessed CO2 discharges was found to be at 2081 tons, bringing about a per capita fossil fuel by-product of 0.321 tons, which were altogether lower than those revealed by higher education institutions outside India. Findings of the energy utilization uncovered that power use represented a significant piece of the CO2 discharges, contributing roughly 55% of overall carbon footprint. In view of these outcomes, strategy suggestions were made to control CO2 discharges by creating awareness among the staff and students. Also, proposals were made to the management for initiating greener environment in the campus. The objective of such measures is to reduce dependency on grid-supplied electricity and nurture a sustainable future. By calculating the carbon footprint and identifying significant contributors, this study provides valuable insights for higher education institutes in India seeking to assess and improve their environmental impact.