[Green Monday Series] What does SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy mean at UEH?

Affordable and clean energy is recognized as a critical driver of economic growth, education, transportation, business development, and improved quality of life. However, energy access and consumption continue to face significant barriers in many countries around the world. In alignment with SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy, the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City (UEH) has proactively promoted renewable energy solutions, green technologies, and international collaboration to ensure inclusive access to clean and sustainable energy. In this week's Green Monday Series, let's explore UEH’s journey toward advancing SDG 7.

Today, SDG 7 has become one of the world's top priorities, aiming to ensure that everyone has access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. Between 2010 and 2023, the world witnessed encouraging progress, with the global electrification rate increasing from 84% to 92%. Nevertheless, this progress remains insufficient to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. It is projected that approximately 645 million people will still lack access to electricity, while 1.8 billion people will continue relying on hazardous cooking fuels and technologies.

Moreover, dependence on fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas remains a major contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately two-thirds of global greenhouse gas emissions. Limited access to clean energy not only hinders economic growth but also affects health, education, and overall quality of life, particularly in developing countries. Without reliable electricity, healthcare facilities may struggle to store vaccines safely, students may face challenges in learning effectively, and many business operations may be disrupted.

As part of its commitment to SDG 7, UEH is progressively developing a Green University Model through comprehensive solutions focused on energy efficiency, carbon emission reduction, and renewable energy adoption. In 2024, UEH recorded a total energy consumption of approximately 21,000 GJ, of which more than 10,000 GJ came from low-carbon energy sources. UEH also renovated 17 classrooms, introduced 7 smart classrooms, 1 high-tech classroom, and established energy-efficient workspaces and meeting facilities. Initiatives such as LED lighting systems, optimized natural daylight utilization, centralized air-conditioning systems, smart digital infrastructure, and solar energy solutions enabled UEH to save approximately 470,000 kWh of electricity during the year, equivalent to reducing nearly 1.27 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions.

At the same time, UEH has been advancing its Net Zero ambitions through the development of carbon credit research, management, and monitoring models across the university system. Specifically, UEH has installed solar energy systems with a total capacity exceeding 509,000 kWp across Campuses A, B, and N, contributing to the transition toward clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. UEH also supports innovative startups in the green economy and low-carbon technology sectors, including BioWraps, Greenchain, and Econet, helping strengthen Vietnam’s sustainable development ecosystem.

In addition, UEH actively promotes research and knowledge dissemination on sustainable energy through 71 studies conducted under the UEH Living Lab framework, training programs on carbon credit markets, as well as workshops, podcasts, and academic forums related to energy transition and green development. Through its vision of creating a sustainable learning, research, and community environment, UEH continues to affirm its pioneering role in advancing SDG 7 and climate action in Vietnam.

Infographic of UEH's contributions to SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy

The journey toward achieving SDG 7 is not only about energy-it is a commitment to a greener, more sustainable, and more equitable future for all. Through its efforts in research, operations, and promoting sustainable lifestyles, UEH is steadily contributing to the transition toward sustainable energy systems while inspiring individuals to take action for a low-carbon and sustainable future.

This article was prepared with reference to:

1. UEH Sustainability Report 2024: https://books.ueh.edu.vn/sustainability-report-ueh/

2. SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/energy/  

Additional Information:

UEH Green Campus - Green Monday Series is a communication activity series under the UEH Green Campus Project, posted every Monday to start the week with positive energy and encourage a green lifestyle by providing knowledge, updating news, sharing inspiring stories about environmental protection and sustainable development.

News and photos: UEH Green Campus Project