Khalifa University Sustainability Achievements Recognised By Global Alliance On Climate

Khalifa University of Science and Technology reports that The Global Alliance of Universities on Climate has praised the institution’s sustainability achievements. The alliance highlighted progress in research and innovation, student experience, outreach and engagement, as well as institutional effectiveness and campus infrastructure supporting sustainable development.

A senior Global Alliance of Universities on Climate delegation, led by Deputy Secretary-General Dr. Jian Zhang, met Khalifa University President Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri at the Main Campus. The visit formed part of a four-day review of sustainability measures, climate-focused initiatives, and related academic activities across the university.

The Global Alliance of Universities on Climate, created in January 2019 during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, began with eight elite universities. The network now studies how higher education institutions support climate action, and it has recognised Khalifa University for contributing to this shared effort across several operational and academic areas.

Dr. Zhang said, "I am impressed by Khalifa University’s vision and the leadership’s dedication to sustainability. I am pleased to see that the university has achieved greatly in building a more climate-resilient future through developing and implementing sustainable technologies, supporting youth engagement and educating leaders of tomorrow, convening communities and promoting partnerships, and advocating for climate action. Through my four-day in-depth visit, I am convinced that Khalifa University is at the forefront of addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the world."

Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, who chairs the leadership group of the Khalifa University Sustainability Task Force, underlined the link with national policy. Prof Al Hajri said, "We are pleased that Khalifa University’s accomplishments toward United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been acknowledged by the world’s elite university alliance, as we welcome Dr. Zhang to our campus and take a close look at many of our research innovations. Universities play a critical role in driving climate action and enhancing sustainability on campuses and in communities. Khalifa University understands its obligations and in line with the UAE’s Net Zero objectives, has implemented a sustainability policy that emphasises efficiency and integrity, while ensuring consistency with the strategic priorities."

During the campus tour, Dr. Zhang and other Global Alliance of Universities on Climate representatives were joined by Professor Samuel Mao, Co-Chair, UAE Universities Climate Network, and Director, ASPIRE Research Institute of Sustainability. The delegation reviewed how sustainability principles are embedded into facilities, operational decisions, and the broader experience of students and staff.

The visiting group examined practical measures across Khalifa University buildings, including the shift to energy efficient LED lighting and the removal of plastic water bottles. These steps, alongside the wider sustainability policy and research portfolio, supported the alliance’s positive assessment of Khalifa University’s role in climate action and sustainable development.

With inputs from WAM