Driving energy sustainability and strategic climate action at a Brazilian public university: a case study of UNICAMP

Purpose This study aims to enhance energy sustainability practices at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) by leveraging insights from the UI GreenMetric (UIGM) ranking and best practices from leading national and international universities. It proposes strategies to align UNICAMP’s campuses with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to advance the institution’s climate action initiatives. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a qualitative, descriptive methodology structured in three phases: preparation, organization and reporting. It analyzes UNICAMP’s performance in the UIGM’s Energy and Climate Change category and examines best practices from highly ranked universities globally. Data collection focuses on identifying actionable indicators and proposing tailored improvements for UNICAMP’s sustainability framework. Findings The study identifies gaps in UNICAMP’s sustainability indicators, particularly in renewable energy deployment and energy efficiency. It proposes actions including expanding solar energy systems, retrofitting buildings, promoting sustainable mobility and fostering a culture of energy-conscious behavior. These measures align with global climate goals and reinforce UNICAMP’s commitment to sustainability. Originality/value This research offers a novel contribution by integrating global best practices into a localized context, emphasizing actionable improvements for a Brazilian public university. It highlights UNICAMP’s potential to lead sustainability efforts within the region and proposes the creation of a Climate Action Plan to achieve carbon neutrality and resilience, addressing the global climate emergency.