Date: March 12, 2025

 

Introduction

The webinar focused on strategies to build smart, sustainable campuses that go beyond Net Zero by leveraging innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology.

Webinar Speakers:

• Simon Burgess
• Hosan Abdullah
• Ethan Aderabi
• Ali Alsaoudi

The discussion emphasized transforming campuses into smart, sustainable environments through engagement, technological integration, and student-driven initiatives.

 

Key Discussion Points

1. Sustainability and the Future of Smart Campuses

• The goal is not just reaching Net Zero but going beyond by actively reducing carbon footprints and absorbing emissions through natural processes.
• Focus on cutting carbon emissions to minimal levels that can be naturally absorbed by nature.
• Universities play a crucial role in leading sustainability efforts and setting global benchmarks.

2. Holistic Approach to Net Zero

• Technology as a solution: Improving air quality monitoring using smart systems.
• Middle Eastern universities have the potential to lead sustainability initiatives in the region.
• Collaboration between companies like Siemens and academic institutions to implement real-world sustainability projects.

3. The Transformational Journey Toward Sustainability

• Creating a pipeline for sustainable innovation through student engagement.
• Internships & Paid Volunteering opportunities to encourage active participation.
• Establishing scholarship links for students involved in sustainability projects.
• Siemens could potentially offer internship programs or collaborative projects with universities.

4. Keeping People Engaged in Sustainability Projects

• A major challenge is sustaining long-term interest in sustainability efforts.
• Strategies include:
  • Diversity challenges to encourage broader participation.
  • Incorporating sustainability into curriculum and extracurricular programs.
  • Taking inspiration from AUS University’s 2022 comprehensive climate action plan.

5. Corporate Sustainability Strategy

• High-level stakeholders must be involved in long-term sustainability planning.
• A 10-year plan should be developed to ensure continuity, even as leadership changes.
• The plan should be scalable and adaptable to evolving environmental challenges

 

Next Steps & Actions

• Research: Explore the feasibility of water source heat pumps for sustainable energy.
• Innovation Pipeline: Partner with students to develop apps and technology solutions, with companies like Siemens improving and implementing them.
• Long-Term Sustainability Roadmap: Develop a 10-year strategy with key stakeholders.
• Student Engagement: Increase participation through paid internships, volunteering, and challenges.
• Smart Campus Transformation: Implement gradual changes to integrate sustainability-focused technology and infrastructure.

 

 

Conclusion

This webinar reinforced the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in achieving sustainability. By engaging students, leveraging technology, and setting long-term sustainability goals, we can transform campuses into smart, green environments that go beyond Net Zero.