The Ateneo de Naga University (ADNU), through the Institute for Environmental Conservation and Research (INECAR), has taken a major step toward environmental sustainability by measuring its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the Main (Bagumbayan) Campus. This initiative focuses on Scope 2 (purchased electricity) and Scope 3 (indirect value chain activities) emissions, laying the groundwork for stronger climate action and supporting ADNU’s commitment to Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’.
What the Data Shows (2016–2024)
- Scope 2 (kWh of Electricity Consumed): From 2016 to 2024, emissions showed a dynamic pattern, peaking in 2019 at 1,176.96 tCO₂e before dropping sharply to 457.19 tCO₂e in 2021, likely reflecting the pandemic’s impact on campus operations, suggesting a lesser power consumption. After rebounding in 2023, emissions decreased slightly in 2024, indicating early signs of stabilization and a shift toward power-efficient equipment.
- Scope 3 (Indirect Emissions): Emissions fluctuated, peaking in 2019 and 2023 at about 26 tCO₂e, with the lowest level in 2021 (12.34 tCO₂e). This is only attributed to the waste generation (biodegradable) and water consumption. These variations reflect ongoing challenges in managing waste generation, water consumption, and other indirect activities, such as using public transportation of the university population.
- Scope 1 (Direct Emissions e.g., fuel use of ADNU Vehicles and Power Generators) is not yet included due to a lack of data, leaving a gap in the full picture of ADNU’s carbon footprint.
Moving Forward
ADNU’s next steps include sustaining gains in energy efficiency, developing stronger strategies for waste and water management, and establishing systems to measure Scope 1 emissions.
This initiative highlights the University’s commitment to becoming a Laudato Si’ University, recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental care and social responsibility. As Pope Francis reminds us, “All is not lost. Human beings… are capable of rising above themselves, choosing again what is good, and making a new start.”
References:
ADNU – Bagumbayan Sur PWCM Dashboard. (2025). Looker Studio. https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/f5e91bab-207c-4952-9e76-e44789a4b724
ADNU SWM Dashboard. (2025). Looker Studio. https://lookerstudio.google.com/reporting/84b8cf00-43ce-4b6b-85f4-c71d3135aa84
Climate Change Commission. (n.d.). Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Waste. NICCDIES. https://niccdies.climate.gov.ph/greenhouse-gas-emissions-from-waste#:~:text=Solid%20waste%20generated%20from%20personal,The%20formula%20is
Department of Energy (2023). Philippine Energy Plan 2023-2050: Transitioning to Reliable, Clean, and Resilient Energy. Republic of the Philippines-Department of Energy. https://legacy.doe.gov.ph/sites/default/files/pdf/pep/PEP%202023-2050%20Vol.%20III_0.pdf
EPA. (2020). Scope 1 and Scope 2 Inventory Guidance. US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/scope-1-and-scope-2-inventory-guidance
EPA. (2024). Scope 3 Inventory Guidance. US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/scope-3-inventory-guidance
