CUHK efforts on the SDGs

SDG 7-12

SDG 1 No Poverty

End poverty in all its forms everywhere

  Since the onset of the covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the wealth gap has worsened, resulting in a growing population of elderly people struggling with poverty. Grassroots families have been hit hardest by the economic downturn. CUHK is unwavering in its commitment to address poverty by conducting research, offering financial aid to students in need, and advocating for equal educational opportunities.

SDG 2 Zero Hunger

End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture

  The global incidence of hunger has risen significantly since the onset of the covid-19 pandemic in 2020. In 2023, around 9% of the world’s population was facing challenges related to food insecurity. This critical situation, driven by conflicts, extreme weather events, and economic turmoil, has highlighted the pressing requirement for long-term, sustainable remedies. CUHK stands out for its leadership in pushing forward studies on sustainable agriculture and food security, aiming to introduce innovative approaches to food production in the face of environmental challenges. CUHK also places great importance on sustainable procurement methods, advocating for fair trade and nurturing a community that values conscientious and sustainable food consumption practices.

SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being

Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at ages

In view of the magnitude of the public health challenges we face, it is crucial for humanity to come together with science, solutions, and solidarity. Although the covid-19 pandemic has now abated, numerous challenges have yet to be surmounted. CUHK is steadfast in its commitment to drive change by improving public health through advancements in healthcare, medical education, and research.

SDG 4 Quality Education

Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunity for all

 

CUHK is dedicated to establishing a supportive learning atmosphere that offers top-tier education and equal chances to all students. The University also strives to disseminate knowledge and pioneering concepts to the broader community. Additionally, CUHK empowers learners with expertise and competencies concerning sustainable development through education, aiming to nurture socially conscious individuals.

SDG 5 Gender Equality

Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls

  CUHK embraces diversity and inclusion and is committed to providing equitable opportunities for all students and staff, regardless of gender. The University is determined to eradicate gender discrimination and to foster an environment where everyone can thrive to their fullest capabilities. Through the establishment of committees and the implementation of relevant policies and guidelines, CUHK actively supports initiatives that champion fairness and equal access to opportunities. Our ongoing efforts aim to advance the principles of a more just and equitable society through a range of impactful initiatives.

SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation

Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all

Freshwater is an invaluable natural asset. It accounts for just 2.5% of the world’s total water volume, and less than 1% of this freshwater resource is readily accessible for essential purposes such as drinking. Hong Kong faces unique challenges in ensuring a sufficient water supply due to its lack of natural lakes, rivers, and extensive underground water sources. CUHK plays an important role in promoting the sustainable utilization of water resources by working towards water self-sufficiency and cultivating a culture of water conservation on its campus.

SDG 13-17

SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy

Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy

  CUHK was the first university in Hong Kong to set a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. To realize this ambitious objective, the institution has dedicated substantial resources to deploy energy-conserving strategies and shift towards eco-friendly energy alternatives. By actively exploring opportunities for integrating renewable energy solutions, enhancing campus facilities, and refining operational procedures, CUHK is making steady progress in reducing its carbon emissions. Furthermore, the university is committed to advancing the adoption and advocacy of clean energy through assorted research ventures and programmes.

SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

CUHK is devoted to establishing a safe, stable, and efficient workplace for all its employees. The University seeks to cultivate future leaders by spearheading innovative programmes that offer invaluable experiences for our students to enhance their professional expertise and essential skills required for excelling in today’s interconnected economy. Through nurturing talent and advocating for economic resilience, CUHK actively helps to shape a more promising future not only for Hong Kong but also for the broader global community.

SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

  CUHK is dedicated to nurturing innovation and ensuring a brighter, more sustainable future through robust research and development initiatives. Through the provision of state-of-the-art research facilities and a nurturing atmosphere for scholars and learners, CUHK fosters creativity, facilitating the transformation of research outcomes into tangible advantages and the realization of groundbreaking concepts.

SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities

Reduce inequality within and among countries

CUHK aims for a society that embraces diversity, promotes inclusivity, and ensures equality for everyone. In accordance with its Principles of Community, the University is committed to guaranteeing that no individuals are marginalized. The recent covid-19 pandemic exposed vulnerable communities to heightened risks and exacerbating inequalities across various societal segments, and we acknowledge the imperative of eradicating structural and systemic discrimination.

SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

By 2050, an estimated 80% of the world's population is projected to reside in urban areas, intensifying the need to prioritize sustainable urban development. This shift underscores the critical need for collaboration among various stakeholders to cultivate vibrant, resilient, and eco-friendly cities. CUHK remains dedicated to supporting the government in tackling urban issues in Hong Kong while pioneering inventive approaches to enhance environmental preservation and foster sustainable urban progress.

SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Between 2000 and 2022, there has been a marked increase of over 70% in the global material footprint. The economic and social progress achieved during the 20th century has unfortunately been accompanied by environmental degradation, endangering the essential systems that sustain life. CUHK emphasizes the critical need to reduce our ecological impact and address the consequences of waste by implementing efficient procurement and waste management approaches. Through engaging in educational programs, we strive to raise public awareness of the importance of adopting sustainable consumption and production methods.

SDG 1-6

SDG 13 Climate Action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

  Climate change remains a pressing issue, and continues to pose a significant threat to the future of our planet. CUHK is dedicated to advancing climate action, and was the first local university to commit to achieving carbon neutrality by 2038. The University endeavours to lead in climate research, fostering a culture that advocates for constructive shifts in understanding, perspectives, and actions related to climate change.

SDG 14 Life Below Water

Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development

  As the world’s largest ecosystem, the ocean is fundamental to human existence, providing sustenance, energy, and water. Despite its critical importance, alarming statistics reveal that 90% of significant fish populations have been depleted, and 50% of coral reefs have been decimated. Human selfishness is exhausting ocean resources beyond their capacity for renewal. CUHK has committed itself to marine conservation by spearheading research and educational programs that actively involve the broader community in safeguarding our oceans.

SDG 15 Life on Land

Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

 

CUHK is committed to developing a campus that nurtures vibrant terrestrial ecosystems and prioritizes the importance of biodiversity conservation. The University serves as a home not only to our students and staff but also to a wide range of trees, flowers and living organisms, including several rare and precious species. By conducting research, sharing knowledge, and implementing educational programs, CUHK strives to make a positive impact on the environment. We will continue to work towards ensuring a sustainable habitat for generations to come.

SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

CUHK is dedicated to fostering a university community that values fairness, diversity, and inclusivity, ensuring that every individual is honoured and provided with equitable opportunities. The University is also actively engaged in advancing peace, justice, and the development of robust institutions not only within Hong Kong but also through our educational initiatives extending beyond borders. Through the dissemination of our knowledge and resources, our goal is to contribute to the establishment of a fairer and more equitable society both locally and internationally.

SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals

Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development

The 2030 Agenda sets out a universal call to action for all nations to guarantee that no individual is marginalized. Achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) necessitates unwavering dedication to international partnerships and collaboration. CUHK places great importance on such alliances, actively seeking to forge connections around the world with other universities and with NGOs, and governmental bodies, so as to enhance implementation strategies and foster renewed cooperation in sustainable development initiatives.