UNICO Project to Accelerate Decarbonisation in SDSN’s Leading European Universities
SDSN and European university partners launch innovative initiative to drive net-zero transitions on campus and beyond
The University Cooperation for Net Zero on Campus (UNICO) project was funded by the ERASMUS+ programme to support the urgent need for decarbonisation in higher education. Spearheaded by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Europe, this ambitious initiative will work with four European universities including University College Cork. Each of the 4 universities, including University College Cork, will work across their respective SDSNs to advance Net Zero ambitions for all respective network members. UNICO’s aim is to accelerate their transition to net-zero emissions, while fostering leadership, innovation, and collaboration across institutions and communities.
As climate risks intensify and policy momentum increases, the role of universities in leading climate action is more critical than ever. UNICO recognises that while many universities have committed to sustainability goals, implementation often remains a significant challenge. This project responds directly to that gap by helping institutions translate commitments into impactful action.
A Whole-Institution Approach to Climate Action
At the heart of UNICO is a whole-of-institution strategy that integrates climate action across teaching, research, governance, and campus operations. Universities will act not only as centres of learning and research, but also as living labs—testing and showcasing sustainable practices that can be replicated across sectors and societies.
UNICO will:
Build institutional capacity through training and peer learning.
Strengthen university-city partnerships to align efforts with local climate plans.
Empower students and staff through participatory governance and inclusive engagement.
Apply and enhance the Net Zero on Campus Guide and Toolkit developed by SDSN.
The project’s innovative approach combines student-led research, campus-based experimentation, and collaborative governance structures to ensure long-term, systemic change.
Strengthening SDSN’s Network and Mission in Europe
The four participating universities are located in EU Mission Cities—urban areas leading the way in climate neutrality under the EU Green Deal—and are active members of the SDSN global and European networks. UNICO will enhance their ability to lead decarbonisation within the academic sector, while also strengthening SDSN’s broader European efforts.
SDSN’s European networks—including SDSN Ireland, SDSN Italy, and SDSN Romania—will play an active role in sharing insights and scaling the project’s impact. As the world’s largest network of universities working on sustainable development, SDSN brings proven expertise and collaborative strength to the project, ensuring it aligns with the goals of the European Green Deal, EU Climate Law, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13: Climate Action.
Empowering a New Generation of Climate Leaders
UNICO is about more than reducing emissions. It aims to cultivate a new generation of climate-conscious students, educators, and administrators equipped to lead the green transition. By supporting inclusive, bottom-up approaches and integrating principles such as Leave No One Behind and Do No Significant Harm, the project will ensure that the decarbonisation journey is both equitable and just.
Each university will tailor its strategy to its local context, ensuring relevance and resilience. Through transnational collaboration, they will share knowledge, develop new sustainability competences, and co-create innovative solutions. These learnings will feed into the Net Zero on Campus Community of Practice, benefiting institutions across Europe and beyond.
A European Response to a Global Challenge
UNICO responds to the Erasmus+ Call for Cooperation Partnerships, with clear alignment to priorities in climate action, digital and green skills, and inclusion in education. The project will test and scale innovative practices to support higher education institutions in becoming key actors of the climate transition.
By turning university campuses into engines of climate innovation and community transformation, UNICO will set new benchmarks for sustainability in higher education—and inspire systemic change far beyond academia.