SDG 13: CLIMATE ACTION

SDG 13: CLIMATE ACTION

Al Maarefa University (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia) demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) through comprehensive initiatives in campus operations, academics, community engagement, and partnerships. This report highlights the university’s climate action efforts from 2020 to 2025, detailing measures to mitigate its carbon footprint, adapt to environmental challenges, raise awareness on climate resilience, and collaborate with stakeholders. These actions align with national and global sustainability priorities and are being submitted for the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings assessment. Below, we outline Al Maarefa’s key achievements in climate change mitigation, adaptation, education, and partnership during the period.

On-Campus Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiatives

Energy Efficiency Measures

Al Maarefa University has integrated sustainability into its campus infrastructure and daily operations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Academic buildings are linked by a modern “smart” campus infrastructure that incorporates energy-efficient systems and design features. For example, the university’s facilities use efficient lighting and climate control systems aimed at minimizing energy consumption and cutting carbon output. The campus layout itself promotes lower emissions by being compact and pedestrian-friendly, which encourages walking and reduces reliance on vehicles. These design principles reflect a strategy to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining user comfort, thereby shrinking the university’s carbon footprint [1].

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Waste management is another focal area of campus sustainability. Al Maarefa has implemented initiatives to reduce waste generation and promote recycling among students and staff. Recycling bins and waste segregation practices are in place to divert waste from landfills, in line with environmental best practices. The university also encourages innovative solutions to waste challenges: in 2024, a team of Al Maarefa students distinguished themselves at a national social responsibility hackathon by developing an environmental innovation for recycling campus waste, showcasing the university’s culture of sustainability-driven problem solving [2]. Such projects not only reduce waste on campus but also raise awareness of circular economy principles.

Renewable Energy Adoption

As Saudi Arabia moves toward clean energy, Al Maarefa University has begun integrating renewable energy where feasible on campus and in curricula. The university emphasizes solar and other renewable technologies in its planning and academic programs. While much of the campus’s electricity is drawn from the grid, there is a strategic intent to incorporate on-site renewable energy installations (such as solar panels) to supplement power needs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. In parallel, renewable energy education is promoted (detailed in the Academics section), ensuring that future campus developments and student projects increasingly leverage sustainable energy sources. Through these combined efforts in energy efficiency, waste reduction, and tentative renewable installations, Al Maarefa is steadily lowering its direct carbon emissions and modeling low-carbon campus management.

Sustainable Transportation

Although the university is primarily a commuter campus, steps have been taken to green its transportation footprint. The campus provides shaded parking and encourages car-pooling among students and staff to reduce the number of vehicles traveling to campus [3]. Its walkable campus design and internal pathways make it convenient for students to move between facilities without vehicles, cutting down on intra-campus car use. Al Maarefa is also exploring future initiatives such as electric campus shuttles and designated carpool parking as part of its commitment to sustainable transport. These measures contribute to improved air quality and reduced carbon emissions in line with SDG13.

Climate-Focused Research and Academic Programs

Climate-Related Research

Al Maarefa University has expanded its research portfolio to address climate change and sustainability challenges. The institution established a dedicated Center for Environmental Sustainability Research tasked with generating innovation in areas such as climate-resilient technology, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Through this center and other research units, faculty and student researchers engage in projects on clean energy technologies, energy efficiency, water security, and climate adaptation solutions. For instance, researchers at Al Maarefa have undertaken studies on solar power optimization and efficient water purification for arid environments [4]. The university’s growing output of scholarly publications and patents reflects this trend towards sustainability research. By 2025, Al Maarefa scholars had published numerous papers on environmental science and engineering solutions, contributing new knowledge to combat climate change. This focus on research not only advances scientific understanding but also feeds back into teaching and practical campus improvements.

Academic Programs and Curriculum

In recognition that education is key to long-term climate action, Al Maarefa University integrates sustainability and climate topics across its curriculum. Relevant content is included in various programs – from health sciences to engineering – to ensure graduates are prepared to address environmental challenges. Notably, the university offers courses and modules on renewable energy, environmental management, and climate policy as part of its undergraduate and graduate programs. Engineering and computer science tracks include lessons on solar and wind energy systems, while public health programs cover climate change’s impacts on community health. This multidisciplinary approach equips students with the knowledge and skills to drive climate solutions after graduation. Additionally, the university periodically hosts seminars and guest lectures on climate science, inviting experts to discuss topics like carbon reduction strategies and climate resilience. These academic efforts demonstrate Al Maarefa’s commitment to educating future leaders in sustainability.

Student Engagement in Climate Action

Al Maarefa’s students are active participants in climate action, often taking learning beyond the classroom. A prime example is the student-led “Club of Experts,” a campus forum focused on global issues including climate change and sustainability. This club organizes panel discussions, educational workshops, and awareness campaigns about pressing environmental challenges. With activities ranging from expert talks on climate science to student debates on sustainability policies, the Club of Experts has become a dynamic platform for raising environmental awareness on campus [5]. The university also encourages students to partake in competitions and hackathons addressing SDG13. The 2024 hackathon project on waste recycling is one such case, and students have also participated in innovation challenges on clean energy and conservation. Through these academic and co-curricular avenues, climate action is ingrained in the educational experience at Al Maarefa, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious graduates.

Public Awareness and Community Outreach

Al Maarefa University extends its climate action impact beyond campus through public education and community outreach programs. Awareness Campaigns: The university has conducted various campaigns to inform and engage the public on climate change, conservation, and sustainability. This includes observances of international environmental days, tree-planting drives, and informational social media campaigns. For example, on World Environment Day and similar occasions, Al Maarefa shares tips on reducing carbon footprints and organizes student-led activities to promote eco-friendly habits in the community.

Workshops and Public Seminars

Collaborating with local organizations, the university frequently hosts workshops open to the public on topics like climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable living. An illustrative initiative is the partnership with the Green Horizons Society, a Saudi environmental NGO. In October 2025, Al Maarefa signed a cooperation agreement with Green Horizons during a Global Health forum to develop and implement community-oriented environmental programs [6]. Through this partnership, the university and NGO are rolling out community workshops and educational campaigns in areas such as tree planting, environmental protection, and sustainable development [6]. These activities raise awareness about climate change impacts and solutions at the grassroots level. Community members, including school students and local residents, have participated in tree-planting events on campus and in neighboring districts as part of a reforestation effort to green the local environment and sequester carbon.

Outreach through Student Projects

Al Maarefa leverages student energy and innovation for community benefit. The aforementioned recycling innovation by students was not only a campus project but also showcased as a solution that could be replicated in other communities [2]. Similarly, students and faculty have developed an educational board game on climate change solutions (as part of a regional climate advocacy project), which has been used in outreach sessions with youth groups to gamify learning about climate challenges. By turning academic projects into public outreach tools, the university maximizes its positive influence on societal awareness and action.

Communication and Media

Al Maarefa University’s media channels play a role in disseminating climate awareness. Regular features in the university’s newsletters, website, and social media highlight sustainable practices and climate tips. In late 2023, for instance, the university’s official Twitter account (@AlMaarefa) ran a “Climate Action Week” series of posts educating followers on energy conservation and water saving methods that individuals can adopt. Such communications amplify the message that everyone – students, staff, and the broader public – can contribute to climate action. Overall, through targeted outreach and education, Al Maarefa fulfills its social responsibility by empowering the community with knowledge and tools to build climate resilience.

Partnerships and Collaborations on Climate Action

Al Maarefa University recognizes that combating climate change requires collaborative effort, and thus it actively forges partnerships with government bodies, industry, and NGOs to amplify its impact. Key collaborations during 2020–2025 include:

Green Horizons Environmental Society

As mentioned, the university’s alliance with Green Horizons Society focuses on community environment initiatives. This NGO partnership facilitates joint campaigns for afforestation, environmental awareness, and sustainability education in the Riyadh region [6]. By working with an established environmental organization, Al Maarefa contributes to national tree-planting goals and conservation projects that extend beyond campus borders.

Saudi Ozone Company (Tech Ozone)

In October 2025, Al Maarefa University signed a memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Ozone Company to collaborate on research and training in advanced environmental technologies [7]. This partnership aims at enhancing professional development and R&D in modern environmental and health technologies, including ozone-based applications and pollution mitigation tools [7]. Through joint research projects and knowledge exchange, the university and the company are developing innovative solutions for air and water purification and building capacity in green technologies. This academia-industry link exemplifies how Al Maarefa supports the development of climate-tech innovations in line with Saudi Arabia’s sustainability objectives.

Government Agencies

Al Maarefa has also worked closely with government entities on climate and safety issues. Notably, the university cooperated with the General Directorate of Civil Defense (SaudiDCD) to improve disaster preparedness in the face of climate-related emergencies. In November 2025, Al Maarefa and Civil Defense authorities carried out a campus-wide emergency alarm siren drill to ensure readiness for natural or man-made disasters [6]. This drill, part of a broader awareness initiative, trained students and staff on evacuation and safety procedures in scenarios like extreme weather events or flooding. The collaboration strengthens community resilience and aligns with national civil defense strategies. Additionally, Al Maarefa’s College of Applied Medical Sciences partnered with local health and environmental authorities to offer first aid and emergency response training to community members, recognizing that climate change can exacerbate health emergencies. These government partnerships underline the university’s role in broader climate adaptation and risk reduction efforts.

Academic and International Networks

The university’s climate action efforts are bolstered by participation in national and international higher-education networks focused on sustainability. Al Maarefa is a member of the International Association of Universities’ Higher Education for Sustainable Development (HESD) network, through which it exchanges best practices on integrating SDG goals (including climate action) into governance and curriculum. Regionally, the university collaborates with other Saudi universities on research related to climate change impacts in arid environments, sharing data and co-hosting conferences on environmental science. Such partnerships ensure that Al Maarefa’s initiatives are informed by global expertise and contribute to collective progress on SDG 13.

Through these multifaceted collaborations with NGOs, industry, government, and academic peers, Al Maarefa University leverages collective knowledge and resources to advance climate action. The partnerships have resulted in joint projects, policy inputs, and community programs that multiply the reach of the university’s sustainability mission. Working in concert with external partners has become a cornerstone of Al Maarefa’s climate action strategy, reflecting SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in service of SDG 13.

Emergency Preparedness and Climate Resilience

Given the increasing threat of climate-induced hazards (such as heat waves, desertification, and flash floods in the region), Al Maarefa University has prioritized emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction as part of its climate action plan. The university has put in place measures to protect its campus community and infrastructure from extreme weather events and to assist local authorities in broader resilience efforts:

Disaster Risk Reduction Planning

The campus administration, in coordination with safety officials, maintains an updated emergency response plan that factors in climate-related risks. This includes heat emergency protocols (to safeguard students during extreme heat days), flood management plans for heavy rainfall events, and business continuity plans accounting for power or water disruptions. Campus facilities have been assessed for climate vulnerabilities, leading to improvements such as enhanced drainage systems and backup power generators to handle weather extremes. Regular risk assessments ensure that the university’s infrastructure is increasingly climate-resilient.

Training and Drills

A key component of preparedness is training students and staff on how to respond during emergencies. Al Maarefa conducts periodic drills simulating various scenarios. In one high-profile drill in 2025, the university partnered with Civil Defense to sound alarm sirens on campus, testing the community’s responsiveness to emergency warnings [6]. This drill successfully raised awareness of evacuation routes and safety procedures among participants, reinforcing a culture of readiness. Additionally, the university’s Department of Student Affairs and the Community Engagement office have organized first aid and emergency response workshops. For example, in 2025 Al Maarefa’s Emergency Medical Services faculty delivered a first aid training course to employees of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, focusing on improving community-wide preparedness and safety standards [3]. By extending such training to both campus members and external groups, the university contributes to overall disaster resilience in its surrounding area.

Heat and Health Resilience

Recognizing that rising temperatures pose health risks, Al Maarefa has implemented on-campus adaptations to heatwaves. These include creating shaded outdoor areas and covered walkways to protect individuals from sun exposure, ensuring adequate drinking water supply across campus, and adjusting academic schedules or activities during peak heat days as needed. The campus clinic is equipped to handle heat stress incidents, and awareness campaigns inform the campus community about staying hydrated and cool. These measures align with Saudi Arabia’s national efforts to safeguard public health in a warming climate.

Infrastructure and Early Warning Systems

The university is exploring technological solutions for climate resilience, such as installing early-warning sensors for weather changes and integrating campus alerts via mobile applications. The goal is to give timely notice to students and staff in case of sudden storms or other climate hazards. Infrastructure-wise, new buildings and renovations at Al Maarefa are constructed with resilience in mind – using materials and designs better suited to extreme heat and ensuring that critical facilities (like IT servers and laboratories) have climate control and flood protection.

By combining planning, education, and infrastructure upgrades, Al Maarefa University has built a foundation for climate adaptation and emergency preparedness. These efforts not only protect the university’s own community but also position it as a local leader in disaster risk reduction, complementing its contributions to climate mitigation and education.

Conclusion

From 2020 to 2025, Al Maarefa University has made significant strides in advancing SDG13: Climate Action through a holistic approach. On campus, the university reduced its environmental footprint via energy-saving infrastructure and waste reduction programs, while academically it fostered climate-focused research and incorporated sustainability into student learning. Al Maarefa’s outreach campaigns and partnerships – ranging from local tree-planting initiatives to high-tech research collaborations – demonstrate a robust engagement with the broader community and stakeholders to combat climate change. Importantly, the institution has also strengthened climate adaptation and emergency preparedness to ensure resilience against climate threats.

These collective efforts underscore Al Maarefa University’s dedication to mitigating climate change, educating for sustainability, and protecting its community. The period 2020–2025 has seen the university emerge as a proactive contributor to Saudi Arabia’s climate goals and an example of best practice in the higher education sector. Going forward, Al Maarefa remains committed to building on these initiatives – whether by increasing renewable energy usage on campus, expanding climate research, or forging new partnerships – in order to further its impact. By doing so, the university not only improves its own sustainability performance but also helps equip society to face the global challenge of climate change, in the true spirit of SDG13.

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