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Italy is taking gradual steps to become one of the world’s most energy-efficient countries. Its infrastructure plans show its commitment to building a sustainable and ethical future.
To discuss Italy’s efforts, we would like to zoom into one example: the University of Calabria (aka UniCal). They made the most environmentally friendly campus in Italy. Quite impressive, considering where they started. Get ready to be inspired by a story of clear vision and persistence. Keep reading!
Universidad of Calabria’s background
The University of Calabria is a state-run university funded in 1972. Calabria is one of the most Southern regions of Italy. It lies directly opposite the eastern coast of the Island of Sicily. Calabria is poor in comparison to the rest of Italy and Europe. Thus, the example gains even more weight.
Universidad of Calabria has one of the greenest campuses in Europe!
In recent years, UniCal has saved more than half a million Euros per year on its energy bill. The achievement is due to the transformation of its energy systems.
Calabria could not count on local funding. So, it took advantage of the resources offered by the European Commission for sustainable development. The total budget for this energy transformation was 18 million Euros. The European Union’s Cohesion Policy funded 75% of the investment.
Energy system transformation
- At UniCal’s campus, there is a central bridge nearly 2 kilometers long. The metal structure links 96 buildings. They put in 33,000 new LED lights on the bridge to cut down on CO2 emissions.
- UniCal also harnesses electricity from the earth by using a geothermal system.
- And it uses energy from the sun using solar and photovoltaic panels.
The transformation took place from 2014 to 2020.
Additional features that help save energy
- Motion detection sensors turn lights on and off in classrooms to avoid wasting energy.
- The central bridge can only be crossed by bike or by foot.
Results derived from going green
- The photovoltaic panels installed along the central bridge reduce CO2 emissions by 900 tons per year.
- The LED system installed along the central bridge makes CO2 emissions drop by 800 tons per year.
- Geothermal heat pumps reduce CO2 emissions by 90 tons per year.
Wrapping Up!
UniCal applies what it teaches to students regarding sustainable energy. We decided to highlight this example for two reasons:
- UniCal shows that even little actions can make a big difference for the environment. In UniCal, saving money on bills isn’t the only success. The students there are learning to make being eco-friendly a regular thing. The university contributes to development and has become a social-economic growth model for Calabria.
- UniCal sets an example for campuses around the world. If UniCal did it, other universities with bigger budgets can do it!
UniCal’s transformation took place from 2014 to 2020. The University’s Dean shares proudly these achievements.
Regarding Italy’s efforts, UniCal’s persistence has plenty to teach other governmental institutions. And even the private sector can take note and unite strengths to make Italy green by 2050.
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