Carbon Emission from Transportation in Higher Learning Institutions: A Case Study at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia

Abstract

The carbon emissions stemming from transportation within the campus environment pose a significant challenge to mitigating climate change and environmental degradation. At Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), transportation, particularly by staff and students, has been identified as the primary contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. This study aims to assess the total carbon emissions from transportation at UTHM and analyze trends over three consecutive years (2021 to 2023). Data were obtained from the Traffic Unit of the Security Department, encompassing vehicle counts and traffic surveys conducted across five roads within the UTHM Campus. The findings revealed a concerning escalation in carbon emissions over the study period. In 2021, transportation activities accounted for 947.64 tCO<sub>2</sub>e, which surged to 1568.42 tCO<sub>2</sub>e in 2022 and further increased to 1679.88 tCO2e in 2023. Notably, Persiaran Tun Ghazali Shafie emerged as a hotspot area for carbon emissions in 2023, experiencing a staggering 95.76% rise compared to 2021, with recorded emissions of 610 tCO<sub>2</sub>e. The average carbon emissions across the five surveyed roads in 2023 soared by 73.84% compared to 2021, indicating a persistent upward trajectory in emissions. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustained carbon emissions monitoring and mitigation efforts at UTHM. Continuous assessment by UTHM authorities is imperative to identify and implement effective strategies for curbing carbon emissions within the campus environment. UTHM can be pivotal in fostering a more sustainable and environmentally responsible campus community by prioritizing emission reduction initiatives.