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University of Applied Sciences compensates CO2 emissions by contributing to Climate Neutral Group projects

15 October 2020

Since the 1st of January 2020, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences has set sustainable travel regulations. From now on, traveling to neighbouring countries must be done by train and in case of flying, RUAS will charge a compensation fee for each booked business trip of an employee. This compensation fee is proportional to the level of CO2 emissions from the flight.

However, until the end of this calendar year, employees and students are not allowed to travel due to the COVID-19 developments. “Despite this measure, we as Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences want to be ready for the moment when it is allowed again,” says Enny Kraaijveld, manager of the Centre of International Affairs at RUAS. The compensation is invested in sustainable climate projects. To this end, last week the CVB decided to work with the Climate Neutral Group.

Climate Neutral Group
The Climate Neutral Group (CNG) is affiliated with RUAS’s travel company Munckhof Travel. They invest in selected, sustainable climate projects that reduce CO2 emissions to zero. The compensation offers opportunities for the local population in the field of clean energy, personal development and employment. CNG applies strict quality standards according to which independent, internationally recognised agencies verify the projects.

As a university of applied sciences we have chosen to contribute to the following projects:

  1. The Jacundà REDD + Forest Conservation project in Brazil. This climate project combats climate change by reducing deforestation and protecting biodiversity. The local population is actively involved in the project.
  2. The Solar Cooking Project in Chad. This climate project invests in the installation of solar chambers in refugee camps in Chad. The solar cookers manufactured on-site replace the demand for firewood. This improves the livelihoods of refugees in the eastern part of Chad.
  3. The Biogas Project in Cambodia. It makes biogas plants accessible to families by installing a biogas plant on their own land through local construction companies. Fermentation of the manure from their own cattle can be used for hot water and lighting and is also a fertile fertiliser.

By opting for CO2 compensation, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences actively contributes to realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which were set in 2019. Every year, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences receives a certificate stating how much has been invested/contributed towards the chosen projects.