Theme 1: Carbon Footprint Monitoring

1 October 2025

Chiang Mai University (CMU) has announced its commitment to becoming a “Carbon Neutral University” by 2032, one of the university’s key sustainable development goals. To achieve this goal, CMU has established five key frameworks to guide its systematic and continuous operations.
The first framework, or Theme 1: Carbon Footprint Monitoring, is a crucial foundation for establishing a clear and measurable direction for the university’s environmental and energy management.

Theme 1: Carbon Footprint Monitoring
1. Assessment and Monitoring
Chiang Mai University has developed an online platform for tracking and reporting greenhouse gas emissions (carbon footprint) across all university departments. This platform provides transparent and up-to-date emission data for Scope 1 (Direct Emissions), Scope 2 (Indirect Emissions from electricity use), and Scope 3 (Other Indirect Emissions).
Researchers and administrators can use this data to design targeted emission reduction measures. Responding to the goals of achieving Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero
2. Certification
To build confidence and achieve nationally and internationally recognized standards, CMU has assessed and applied for Carbon Footprint for Organization (CFO) certification from the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (Public Organization) (TGO).
Currently, several units within the university have received CFO certification, including:
• Energy Research and Development Institute, Nakhon Ping
• Hariphunchai Education Center
• Mae Hia Educational Area
• Academic Services Office
In addition, CMU has received Carbon Neutral Certificate certification, including:
• Energy Research and Development Institute, Nakhon Ping
• Hariphunchai Education Center
This certification certifies that the university has implemented measures to reduce and offset greenhouse gas emissions, achieving carbon neutrality.
3. Target Setting
CMU has developed a greenhouse gas management plan for the short, medium, and long term, with clear indicators covering energy reduction, renewable energy use, resource efficiency enhancement, and carbon offsetting measures. This is to achieve Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero within a timeframe consistent with national and international development goals. Tangible Results and Achievements
• The CMU Carbon Footprint Online platform displays real-time data, reporting Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions. The data is presented in an easy-to-understand dashboard format.
• Certification from the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO)
• Several university departments have received CFO Certificates
• Some departments have already received Carbon Neutral Certificates
• Elevating organizational standards
• Certification enhances the university’s credibility
• Acting as a model for other educational institutions in achieving sustainable environmental management
CMU as a leader in sustainability
Chiang Mai University is not only a source of academic learning, but also a model for social and environmental development through concrete and continuous operations. Monitoring and assessing the Carbon Footprint is an important first step in moving the university towards becoming a “Carbon Neutral University.”
This progress reinforces Chiang Mai University’s commitment to being a leader in environmental management among Thai higher education institutions and inspiring all sectors of society to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for a sustainable future for the planet.
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