Shanghai Jiao Tong and Edinburgh launch low-carbon college

China has opened its first college for the study of low-carbon technology as a result of a joint initiative between Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the University of Edinburgh.

The China-UK Low Carbon College in Lingang, Shanghai, aims to become a key centre in tackling global environmental challenges and is already offering dual master’s programmes in low-carbon energy and low-carbon environment.

Students will spend their first year studying in the new college at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and will be able to apply to study at Edinburgh for their second year. They will then be required to complete their theses at Shanghai Jiao Tong.

In the coming months, the new centre will also offer degree programmes in carbon finance, management, smart cities and circular economy, with the aim of growing to recruit more than 1,000 students.

The University of Edinburgh said that the college will build upon the achievements of its Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Innovation, which has helped more than 1,000 Scottish companies develop their businesses and build international links.

At the new college, students, academics and industry experts from China, the UK and other nations will develop research projects in areas such as sustainable construction, air quality and energy efficiency. The hub also plans to develop smart cities that use data and digital technology to improve quality of life.

The college is also exploring opportunities for joint undergraduate and PhD programmes and will establish an exchange programme for academics, support staff and graduate students.

ellie.bothwell@timeshighereducation.com