A Mitigation Concept for Energy-Demand Based Carbon Footprint in a University Campus

Abstract

Energy generation and its consequent environmental impact due to the resulting carbon footprint is in the forefront of global researches. The power poverty in Nigeria has immensely enabled Universities to embark on diesel-powered generators to provide the energy requirement for teaching, researches and community services. Hence, the campuses are becoming hotspots for emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, thereby contributing to global warming and environmental degradation. This study developed a management regime for carbon footprint in Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Nigeria. It audited the various activities and units that directly or indirectly promote green gases on the campus environment over a period of twelve months. The carbon footprint over the period was estimated to be 15,335,017.41 kgCO2e, with the bulk of the emissions (15,272,803.68 kgCO2e) coming from electricity generation and use. The data was modelled and analysed to arrive at veritable mitigation strategies