Sustainability at The Open University in Ireland

Our commitment to a sustainable future

The Open University in Ireland is committed to protecting the environment, addressing climate change and embedding sustainability throughout our work. We are aligning with both Ireland’s and the UK’s climate goals – including net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 – by reducing our environmental impacts and fostering positive social outcomes for current and future generations.

We define sustainability broadly: it covers environmental stewardship, social justice, economic wellbeing and responsible education that equips learners and communities with the knowledge and skills to address sustainability challenges. 

Our strategic approach

The Open University in Ireland has committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, guided by structural planning and monitoring frameworks. This commitment aligns with Northern Ireland’s Climate Change Act and similar ambitions for climate action across the island of Ireland.

We continually review and enhance our policies and practices to reduce emissions from energy, travel, procurement and broader university activities, and to support more sustainable outcomes across our operations.

Sustainability Working Group 

In 2022 we established a Sustainability Working Group that champions sustainability planning, reporting and action across our organisation. The group:

• Oversees sustainability activity in Ireland and contributes to strategy
• Reviews policies to ensure relevance across Ireland
• Monitors progress against sustainability objectives and KPIs
• Promotes training and awareness for staff in sustainability practices
• Communicates progress to key stakeholders, including government partners 

Get involved: initiatives and opportunities 

Carbon Literacy training

We offer free Carbon Literacy Training to all OU staff and students. This course builds awareness of climate change causes and impacts helps participants assess their own carbon footprints and supports practical action to reduce emissions in daily life and work.

SPARK: Sustainability Planning, Action & Reporting Kit

 
Our SPARK framework supports sustainability planning and action at unit and institutional levels. It helps embed sustainability into operational goals, ensuring that every part of the University plays a role in reducing negative impacts and enhancing positive outcomes for people and the planet. 

Responsible Futures

We participate in Responsible Futures, a student-centred accreditation programme that helps embed sustainability across curriculum, activities and student experience. This externally assessed framework supports students in gaining skills to thrive as global citizens and reinforces our commitment to sustainability education. 

Research and Open Societal Challenges  

Our contribution to sustainability extends into research. Through initiatives such as Open Societal Challenges, interdisciplinary teams work on real-world problems that relate to sustainable development and long-term societal outcomes.

Go Green and practical action

  
Our Go Green initiative empowers staff to take action on energy use, waste reduction, water conservation and sustainable travel, generating both environmental and financial savings.