UMS Sustainability and Climate Action Policy

1. Policy Statement

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is committed to becoming a sustainable university by championing climate action and integrating sustainable practices into all aspects of its operations, academic activities, research, and community engagement. UMS aims to contribute significantly toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to climate action, responsible consumption, and environmental protection.

2. Purpose

This policy provides a framework to:

i) Reduce the environmental footprint of UMS.
ii) Promote energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and responsible resource management.
iii) Foster a sustainability culture within the UMS community.
iv) Support national and international climate commitments and policies.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all UMS campuses, faculties, administrative units, students, staff, contractors, and partners. It includes governance, teaching and learning, campus infrastructure, procurement, research, community engagement, and daily operations.

4. Commitments

4.1 Climate Action

i) Develop and implement a UMS Climate Action Plan with measurable targets.
ii) Align with Malaysia’s climate goals and international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement.
iii) Aim for carbon neutrality at UMS by [target year] through mitigation and adaptation strategies.

4.2 Energy and Emissions

i) Improve energy efficiency across campus buildings, labs, and facilities.
ii) Transition progressively to renewable energy sources.
iii) Monitor and reduce Scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

4.3 Sustainable Waste and Resource Management

i) Implement comprehensive waste separation, recycling, and composting systems.
ii) Reduce single-use plastics across campus.
iii) Promote the principles of a circular economy.

4.4 Water Conservation

i) Enhance water efficiency through smart technologies and behavior change.
ii) Implement rainwater harvesting and water reuse systems where feasible.

4.5 Sustainable Procurement and Operations

i) Integrate sustainability criteria into procurement policies and supplier evaluations.
ii) Prefer local, ethical, and environmentally responsible goods and services.

4.6 Education, Awareness, and Research

i) Integrate sustainability and climate education into curricula and co-curricular activities.
ii) Encourage student-led environmental initiatives.
iii) Promote interdisciplinary research in sustainability, climate resilience, and green technology.

4.7 Community and Partnership Engagement

i) Collaborate with government agencies, industries, NGOs, and local communities on sustainability initiatives.
ii) Position UMS as a regional leader in environmental and climate action.

4.8 Governance and Accountability

i) Establish a UMS Sustainability and Climate Action Committee to oversee policy implementation and monitoring.
ii) Publish annual sustainability reports detailing progress, challenges, and key metrics.

5. Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy will be reviewed every three (3) years or as necessary to align with evolving best practices, technological advancements, and regulatory requirements.