Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½

Climate, Sustainability & Inequality

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Building a sustainable campus

Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ is reducing emissions and supporting South Africa's shift to a net-zero economy. We're turning our campus into a living laboratory for sustainable justice, guided by ongoing analysis of our carbon footprint. Using our location in Johannesburg and our expertise in mining and industry, we're running research projects, updating curriculum, advising on policy, and reducing our own operational emissions. 

2050 Vision, and how we are getting there

The Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Sustainability Committee has developed a far-reaching strategy that targets six areas of impact and an implementation plan.

Research and Teaching Informs strategy implementation and guides curriculum development.
Energy Net-zero emissions through diverse renewable technologies and strategic partnerships.
Water Improved efficiency with reduced municipal dependence through recycling, rainwater harvesting, and boreholes.
Waste Minimal landfill waste through campus-wide reuse, recycling, and support for local waste reclaimers.
Transport Green energy vehicles for student transport, electric charging stations, and bicycle and pedestrian friendly campuses.
Procurement Sustainable, transparent systems prioritising green infrastructure, indigenous planting, food gardens, and ethical sourcing.

Campus spotlight

The Presidential Ten Million Trees Flagship Project promotes the planting of trees to tackle climate threats and support biodiversity and urban greening
Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Joins Ten Million Trees Campaign Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ has committed to the national Ten Million Trees campaign, planting indigenous trees across campus to combat climate change, restore biodiversity, and create greener spaces for the university community. Every tree planted is a step toward a more sustainable future. Read more →
Mandela Month Challenge: A good cause unites and sparks friendly rivalry to build the highest and most stable tower with donations that will support students
Towering Kindness During Mandela Challenge During Mandela Day, the Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ community came together to donate food, clothing, and time to those in need. From food drives to volunteering, students and staff embodied the spirit of service - proving that small acts of kindness create towering impact. Read more →
Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Food Sovereignty Hub launched in May 2025
Hope and Community in a Garden Student volunteers are transforming campus spaces into thriving food gardens, growing fresh vegetables that supplement the Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Food Programme. These gardens don't just feed students - they build community, teach sustainable practices, and create pockets of green hope across campus. Read more →

From the October issue of the Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Review: Urban oasis - From koi to campus cats, bees to blossoms – a focus on the wild heart of Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½.

  • 1 Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ Review cover
  • 2 Pond and Paddle
  • 3 Bloom and Zoom
  • 4 Bees and butterflies

#SaveOurResources - initiatives to save electricity and water on campus

 



The campaign, Save Our Resources. #ForGood is part of ongoing efforts to rally the Ñî¹óåú´«Ã½ community to act with care, through small and big actions, as individuals and as a collective. Read more.