Our story
Northumbria University’s Energy Futures programme recognises that the complex challenges brought by global warming affect all areas of life and it aims to help the North East Region work towards a net-zero future.
With expertise in a range of areas - from electric vehicles and low carbon buildings to agenda-setting sustainable business models, urban biodiversity and responsible design - the Energy Futures programme enables the work of the University’s experts to benefit scores of external partners.
Northumbria University already has been recognised internationally for the quality of its environmental efforts, having reduced its carbon emissions by half in the past five years – with a target of zero carbon by 2040.
Its impressive credentials have led to the university being ranked fourth in the UK and 27th in the world for sustainability. These accolades have been achieved by initiatives such as Energy Futures, by offering acclaimed courses in the sustainability field, and by being at the forefront of research and education in clean energy technology.
Our advice
Energy Futures is a diverse community of approximately 50 academics from across Departments and Faculties at Northumbria University and emphasises collective success in working towards a sustainable future.
The combined ReNU/Energy Futures platform includes a portfolio of over 30 industry partners ranging from large multinationals to small and medium-sized enterprises. It is the gateway for all energy-related work at Northumbria University.
Insights from industry research indicate that prioritising equality, diversity and inclusivity leads to greater levels of innovation. This is a strategic priority for Energy Futures in particular, because the challenge of achieving net zero carbon emissions requires solutions on a 10-year timescale, is inextricably linked to innovation.
Achieving net zero emissions is a significant challenge that crosses traditional academic disciplines. It also requires innovation, policy and skills training.
Energy Futures is a diverse and inclusive community of academic excellence focused on bringing these things together to create research impact - with the opportunity to use all learning to accelerate the reduction of carbon emissions in the UK. It promotes the value of STEM to society and is also involved in influencing UK science policy.
Our metrics
The university's success is also evident in the fact it has been ranked fourth in the UK and 27th in the world for sustainability.
