Key figures for sustainability
A sustainable student union creates a framework for the best student life in the world also in the future. AYY’s goal is to be a bold and responsible community in society where biodiversity and global justice are intrinsic values. The effects of AYY’s sustainable development are related to the Student Union’s key functions: student advocacy, the creation of the Aalto community and the development of housing.
Sustainability targets, goals and development are monitored and evaluated annually from 2020 onwards through voluntary sustainability reporting. Check out the annual figures below!
On the calculation principles of the figures
Although AYY uses the carbon footprint as a key indicator of environmental impact, it is good to remember that activities are not automatically made ecologically sustainable and environmentally friendly by simply minimising the greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon footprint does not necessarily reflect the organisation’s impact on biodiversity or land use, for example. However, as a concrete figure, it helps in outlining the scale of the organisation’s environmental impact. The carbon footprint is a particularly successful indicator for climate impact assessment.
Both direct and indirect emissions have been considered in the carbon footprint assessment where possible. Most of AYY’s emissions are indirect emissions, such as the emissions from purchased energy and procurement. The calculation and assessment of the carbon footprint has been conducted by internal specialists. The carbon footprint of 2019 was verified by using the Hiilifiksu calculator, which is a carbon footprint calculator tailored for organisations by the University of Helsinki and Sitra. The calculation principles are based on current sources, such as the Finnish Environment Institute.
The energy consumption data is based on annual property reports.
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Ecological sustainability policy has been updated – AYY transitions to a plant-based policy
Aalto University Student Union (AYY) has updated its ecological sustainability policy, which supports AYY’s daily operations. The new document directs AYY to serve plant-based food and drinks at its events. In the future, food waste will be minimised, and 30 percent of air and ship travel costs will be offset towards environmental activities.
Apply for SYL committees
Aalto University Student Union members now have the opportunity to apply as candidates for the Development Cooperation Advisory Board (KENKKU) and Climate Network of SYL, the National Union of University Students in Finland. In the committees, you have the opportunity to learn and engage in national advocacy work in the field of development cooperation and climate policy.
The most sustainable student life in the world?
According to AYY’s strategy, the Student Union will strive for carbon neutrality by 2030, but is the pursuit of carbon neutrality enough? We cannot measure the sustainability of our activities with just one metric.