Institutional Role in Implementing Climate Action (SDG 13): A Case Study from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Climate change has been identified as one of the biggest environmental issues of the century. Since the industrial revolution, fossil fuel burning and deforestation due to human activities have increased levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, leading to global warming and climate change. One of the key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable development is SDG 13 on climate action, which was adopted in parallel to the Paris Agreement of 2015. Sri Lanka has been identified as a highly vulnerable country to climate change, and institutionally led climate action is essential in achieving the country’s overall climate change mitigation targets. This article is based on a study which had, as its objective, the evaluation of such mitigation action at an institutional level, considering evidence from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. The available data at the university on climate action was analyzed. Increasing the use of renewable energy, energy saving appliances, water conservation measures, zero waste strategies, and expanding the vegetation (especially the forest cover), are required, as evidenced from the University of Colombo. The overall emission estimates indicate that there has been a remarkable emission reduction at the University due to the shift to cleaner and energy saving options and waste management practices adopted since 2017. To achieve SDG 13’s targets, individual, institutional, and national level commitments are required. Attitudinal change and awareness creation among the community are key components in promoting and developing such commitments.