Sustainable Commuting
An-Najah National University is committed to promoting sustainable commuting practices across its campuses. Through a variety of initiatives, the university measures progress and sets clear targets to reduce its carbon footprint and encourage eco-friendlier transportation options.
Measuring and Setting Targets for Sustainable Commuting
An-Najah National University monitors and sets clear targets for sustainable commuting.
The university's key initiatives in this regard include:
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Walkable Campus Design:
The university’s campuses have been designed to promote walking, with all main facilities being within 500 meters of the campus center. This encourages walking as a primary commuting method. Shaded paths, as well as ramps designed for individuals with physical disabilities, are key features supporting pedestrian mobility.
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Shuttle Bus Services:
Free shuttle buses are available to students, staff, and faculty. These buses reduce reliance on private vehicles and contribute to lowering campus traffic and emissions.
An-Najah is tracking shuttle bus utilization and aims to increase ridership by 50% by 2025.
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Electric Vehicles:
Zero-emission electric vehicles are used for transportation across campus. These vehicles support campus operations while also contributing to sustainability goals. Electric vehicle charging stations are available at key locations around the campus.
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Reduction of Private Vehicle Use:
The university has actively reduced parking areas on campus and implemented measures to discourage the use of private vehicles. Targets have been set to achieve a 20% reduction in private vehicle usage by 2025.
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Sustainability Targets and Monitoring:
The university has defined measurable targets for increasing the use of sustainable commuting modes. Regular data collection and monitoring ensure that the university can track its progress and make adjustments to improve performance.
Actions to Promote Sustainable Commuting
In addition to measuring and setting targets, An-Najah National University undertakes several actions to promote sustainable commuting:
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Bicycle Parking Facilities:
Two bicycle parking spaces have been equipped at both the Old and New campuses, encouraging the use of bicycles as a mode of transport. The university is also planning additional cycling infrastructure to support this initiative.
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Subsidized Shuttle Services:
Free shuttle services, which function as a form of carpooling, help reduce the number of private vehicles on campus. The university aims to continue expanding these services to further increase the percentage of users.
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Electric Vehicle Infrastructure:
Electric vehicle charging stations have been installed outside the campus to encourage
the use of zero-emission vehicles. Additionally, preferred parking is offered to electric and fuel-efficient cars.
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Carpooling and Ride-Sharing Programs:
The university is exploring the introduction of formal car-sharing programs. In the meantime, shuttle services act as a shared transport scheme, reducing the need for single-occupancy car trips.
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Walking and Pedestrian Infrastructure:
The university has invested in pedestrian infrastructure, including shaded walkways and ramps for individuals with physical disabilities, to make walking a more attractive and accessible option.
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Bicycle Sharing and Parking:
Plans are underway to expand the availability of bicycle parking and potentially introduce a bicycle-sharing program, which will further reduce reliance on motorized transport.
Sustainability Targets and Progress
An-Najah National University has set ambitious targets to increase the percentage of sustainable commuting options on campus. These include:
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50% reduction in private vehicle use by 2030.
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40% increase in shuttle bus ridership over the next five years.
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Expansion of bicycle parking and other cycling facilities to further encourage nonmotorized transportation.
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Ongoing efforts to increase the use of electric vehicles and install more charging stations.
An-Najah National University is taking concrete steps to measure and promote more sustainable commuting practices. With initiatives ranging from walkable infrastructure and free shuttle services to electric vehicle support and bicycle parking, the university is committed to fostering an environmentally friendly campus. Continuous monitoring and specific targets ensure that the university remains on track to meet its sustainability goals.
