By Eamonn Ryan
The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in educational buildings are major contributors to energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
By addressing HVAC decarbonisation holistically, educational institutions can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency. Drazen Zigic | Freepik.com
As the global push for carbon neutrality intensifies, decarbonising these systems has become a critical priority, particularly for retrofitting existing educational infrastructure.
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Johannesburg and the Federal University of Technology, Akure explored the challenges and solutions associated with decarbonising HVAC systems in educational institutions in Gauteng province, South Africa. The study, presented at the 15th International Conference on Construction in the 21st Century (CITC 2025) in Rabat, Morocco, employed a quantitative approach using structured questionnaires administered to professionals involved in HVAC operations.
The findings revealed several key obstacles. High upfront costs of low-carbon HVAC technologies were cited as the most significant barrier, followed by limited technical expertise and institutional inertia. These factors collectively slow the adoption of sustainable HVAC practices despite the clear long-term benefits.
However, the research also identified notable opportunities. Government incentives, long-term energy savings, and increasing institutional support for climate action were highlighted as drivers that could accelerate decarbonisation efforts. The study emphasises that adopting phased retrofitting strategies, building technical capacity among maintenance staff and creating policy frameworks that incorporate lifecycle costing and performance-based upgrades are essential steps to overcome these challenges.
By addressing HVAC decarbonisation holistically, educational institutions can significantly reduce their carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency. The study underscores that success requires collaboration among technical experts, policymakers, and institutional decision-makers. Furthermore, targeted funding, awareness campaigns, and the integration of decarbonisation goals into institutional infrastructure planning are recommended to ensure long-term sustainability.
This research provides a practical roadmap for South African educational institutions aiming to transition toward energy-efficient and low-carbon HVAC systems. Decarbonising HVAC infrastructure is not just an environmental necessity but also a strategic opportunity to reduce operational costs, enhance system performance, and demonstrate leadership in climate action within the education sector.
Source: University of Johannesburg & Federal University of Technology, Akure. Decarbonising HVAC Systems in Educational Buildings. 15th International Conference on Construction in the 21st Century, CITC 2025, Rabat, Morocco. Published 2025.
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