The updated roadmap will broaden its scope to consider not only climate impacts but also the effects of University operations on nature. For the first time, the University will assess how its operations harm the natural environment. It will also seek to better understand how it might contribute positively to both climate and the environment.
“While much new research knowledge has emerged in recent years, the wider context of climate and nature work has changed significantly. We must rise to this challenge and ensure proactively that the University’s goals and measures are firmly rooted in research and remain suitably ambitious,” says Anne Portaankorva, Vice-Rector for Sustainability and Responsibility.
As part of the update, the University will critically examine the goals and measures set out in its Carbon Neutral University of Helsinki by 2030 roadmap, including the emissions reduction potential of each measure. The University’s existing carbon neutrality goal is based on a combination of emissions reduction measures and carbon offsetting. Recent research suggests, however, that offsetting mechanisms such as the purchase of carbon credits often fail to deliver real emissions reductions. The EU’s directive, which protects consumers from greenwashing, also sets out requirements for verifiable environmental claims, which will play a role in guiding the University’s new assessment of its goals and measures.
The carbon footprint for 2025 increased from the previous year
The University of Helsinki’s 2025 carbon footprint totalled 55,467 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e), up from 51,057 tCO2e in 2024.
This rise is largely the result of changes in the University’s calculation methods. The bulk of the increase stems from a more comprehensive calculation method for flight emissions, which now accounts for not only direct carbon dioxide emissions but also the full lifecycle of aviation fuel and the wider atmospheric effects of flying. A small additional increase came from the University’s procurement of goods and services, as well as property maintenance.
While total emissions have not decreased, a positive trend is visible in the University’s direct emissions (Scope 1 under the Greenhouse Gas Protocol), owing to a reduction in heating oil use at research stations. Elsewhere, emissions are broadly unchanged from 2024.
Annual carbon footprint at University of Helsinki. *Due to changes in calculation methods, the 2025 figures are not fully comparable with those of previous years. A more comprehensive calculation method has been used for flight emissions, and purchased property maintenance services have been recategorised from Facilities to Procurement.
Researchers and experts are invited to contribute to the development
The University’s climate and nature work is grounded in research knowledge and developed in close collaboration with the academic community and stakeholders. Researchers and other experts are warmly invited to contribute their views and skills to this collaborative development.
To get involved, please contact Climate and Nature Specialist Karoliina Koistila.