SDG 13 – Climate Action

SDG 13 – Climate Action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Our Contribution to SDG 13

The Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (SUA) contributes to climate action through research, education, international cooperation and practical measures supporting energy efficiency and climate resilience.

The university focuses particularly on the impacts of climate change on agriculture, water resources, landscapes, food systems and rural communities. These themes connect its scientific mission with environmental responsibility across university operations.

Research and Innovation

Climate-related research at SUA addresses adaptation of agricultural practices, drought resilience, soil and water management, greenhouse-gas emissions and low-carbon production systems. University researchers work with domestic and international partners on tools and methods for improving environmental performance.

The ClimateSmartResearch project connects experimental research stations across Europe to develop and test climate-smart farming practices. WATERGRID focuses on nature-based solutions for water retention and drought management, while related research initiatives address land-use change and nutrient management.

The university has also contributed to applied tools supporting estimation and reduction of carbon footprints in the agrifood sector.

Education and Student Engagement

SUA integrates climate-related topics into education in environmental sciences, agriculture, landscape engineering, regional development and other fields. Students study climate risks, mitigation, adaptation and the management of natural resources through academic courses and practical learning.

Field exercises, research projects and activities at university facilities support understanding of how climate change affects ecosystems and production systems. Workshops and interdisciplinary events encourage students to connect climate science with personal choices, professional practices and public policy.

Public Engagement and Community Activities

SUA shares climate-related knowledge with schools, public institutions, farmers, businesses and local communities. In March 2025, the Path to Sustainability workshop brought together university participants and external experts to discuss climate impacts and opportunities for sustainable behaviour.

Research partnerships and outreach activities also support knowledge exchange on drought, resilient agriculture, water management and environmental planning. These activities help make scientific findings accessible to practitioners and the public.

Sustainable Campus Operations

SUA monitors energy use and implements measures intended to improve building efficiency and reduce the environmental impacts of campus operations. These include energy-efficient technologies, photovoltaic installations, green infrastructure and selected low-carbon mobility measures.

Total reported energy consumption reached 17,734.45 MWh in 2025, compared with 17,630.46 MWh in 2024. Energy produced from the university's own renewable installations reached 32.85 MWh in 2025.

The institution's simplified carbon-footprint calculation for 2025 amounted to approximately 2,430 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. This estimate does not represent a complete Scope 1–3 inventory. A measurable, time-bound institution-wide greenhouse-gas reduction target has not yet been formally adopted.

Key Achievements

  • 17,734.45 MWh total energy consumption recorded in 2025.
  • 32.85 MWh of renewable energy generated on site in 2025.
  • Approximately 2,430 tCO₂e in the university's simplified 2025 carbon-footprint estimate.
  • International participation in ClimateSmartResearch and WATERGRID projects.

Evidence and Further Information

Climate Research and Outreach

Institutional Strategy and Environmental Data