The steps toward (nearly) net-zero. One university’s path to achieving net-zero scope one and two

<p dir="ltr"><i>Many organisations are working to mitigate the effects of climate change by aiming to reach net zero in the future. This paper explores how one university has already achieved (Nearly) net zero (Scopes 1 and 2). It examines both the tangible changes to the university’s buildings and operations and the less tangible behavioural and leadership changes that needed to be implemented to reach full net-zero, including Scope 3. The paper employs the MIR (Multidisciplinary Research framework) as a comprehensive approach to research. The MIR emphasises collaboration across various disciplines to address complex problems. This study uses industry and academic researchers from fields such as building surveying, architecture, and business psychology. The case study was conducted over a twelve-month period, reflecting the journey of the case-study university from 2014 to 2025 towards net zero and the implementation of the required sustainability changes. Data was collected from five primary sources: documents, archival data, interviews, observation, and ethnographic data. The paper shows that sustainability-focused leadership, behavioural changes, and physical changes to the building are intertwined and equally important to achieving net-zero. It identifies gaps in the current standards, particularly regarding hybrid and remote working and the different approach required to tackle scope three emissions. It also underscores the necessity for flexible building and organisational management to truly attain a sustainable net-zero organisation.</i></p>