News & Events
A University’s ESG Materiality Assessment
- November 8, 2024
- Posted by: goher

Swipe through to see how ZD University’s example sets and achieves ambitious ESG goals in alignment with QS Sustainability Rankings!
Stakeholder Identification & Engagement
Stakeholder Engagement
ZD University involves faculty, students, staff, and community representatives in its sustainability journey!
- Quarterly Forums hosted by “ZD Green” encourage open dialogue.
- Target: 80% of departments to have sustainability representatives in 1 year.
- Increase student participation in forums by 10% annually.
Define Sustainability Priorities
Setting Priorities
After consulting stakeholders, ZD University sets three key priorities:
1- Reducing carbon emissions
2- Boosting sustainability research
3- Enhancing biodiversity on campus
- Target: Reduce emissions by 15% over 3 years.
Increase sustainability publications by 20% in 2 years.
Data Gathering for ESG Aspects
Gathering Data
ZD University collects data on energy use, water consumption, waste, and diversity.
- Monthly tracking helps set benchmarks and monitor improvements.
- Target: 12,000 MWh baseline energy use, reduced by 1,200 MWh in 2 years.
- Divert 60% of waste from landfills within two years.
Materiality Assessment
Prioritizing Key Issues
ZD University uses a materiality matrix to identify high-impact ESG issues:
- Energy usage and waste management rate highly, along with mental health initiatives.
- Target: Score key issues (1-10) based on impact. Prioritize those scoring 8+.
Setting Sustainability Goals & Targets
Ambitious Goals
ZD University sets actionable goals:
- Achieve 100% renewable energy for campus power within five years!
- Increase green spaces with native plants and pollinator habitats.
- Target: Reach 25% renewable energy in year one, add 15% annually.
- Reduce water usage by 20% over 3 years.
Implementation Plan
Executing the Plan
ZD University installs smart lighting & HVAC systems to boost efficiency and reduces environmental impact.
- Creates dedicated green zones with native plants to support biodiversity.
- Target: Install smart energy systems in 50% of buildings in year one, 100% within three years.
- Expand green spaces by 15,000 square meters over three years.
Monitoring & Reporting Progress
Tracking Success
Quarterly reports keep stakeholders informed of ZD University’s progress on emissions, waste, and social impact.
- Annual transparency reports align with QS criteria and are publicly available.
- Target: Reduce emissions by 5% quarterly. Achieve a 10% year-over-year increase in waste diversion.
Final Slide – Call to Action
Join Us on Our Journey to Sustainability!
ZD University is committed to achieving a greener, more responsible future. Follow our progress and be part of the change!