The Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) has estimated that each in-person entrance examination generates 198 tons of waste, prompting the institution to consider transitioning to an online format to reduce its environmental impact. According to a report issued by the General Directorate of School Administration in July 2025, the shift from physical to digital exams was justified based on environmental indicators. The document outlined that applying the entrance exam online for 450,000 applicants annually would serve as a key measure to lower ecological footprint, improve operational efficiency, and align with institutional development goals set forth in the UNAM Institutional Development Plan 2023–2027 and the Sustainability and Resilience Strategy 2024–2027. Each in-person admission process involves the movement of 400 individuals, including applicants and their families, and results in the generation of 198 tons of waste. It also requires more than 3,700 university workers to participate. The report highlighted that over 400,000 people and families travel to take the exam, leading to traffic congestion, public transportation saturation, emissions of harmful gases, and fossil fuel consumption. Additionally, the report noted that each weekend’s exam process mobilizes 3,700 workers, including trusted staff and temporary laborers, along with their vehicles and use of public transport. On average, one day of in-person exam application produces 22 tons of solid waste. The transition to an online model is presented as a strategic move to mitigate these challenges. The UNAM emphasized that conducting the exam virtually would significantly reduce mobility-related impacts. This includes minimizing the need for large-scale transportation, reducing carbon footprints, and conserving energy resources. The initiative also aims to streamline administrative processes and enhance accessibility for applicants who may face logistical barriers during in-person examinations. Support for the proposed change has come from various faculties and schools within the UNAM. In a separate report, La Jornada cited that academic units have endorsed the efforts of Rector Luis Lomelí and the commission reviewing the online exam proposal. These institutions recognize the potential benefits of digital assessments, including reduced environmental strain and improved resource management. The support reflects broader alignment with national sustainability goals and the increasing adoption of remote learning technologies in higher education. The decision follows growing global trends toward digitization in educational systems, particularly in response to climate concerns and the need for more sustainable practices. The UNAM’s approach mirrors similar initiatives undertaken by universities worldwide, which have sought to minimize their ecological footprint through technological innovation. By implementing an online exam system, the university aims to contribute to Mexico's broader environmental policies while maintaining academic standards and student access. The implementation of the online exam system will require careful planning and coordination. Key considerations include ensuring equitable access to technology for all applicants, providing adequate technical support, and maintaining the integrity of the assessment process. The university is reportedly working with IT departments and external consultants to develop a secure and user-friendly platform capable of handling the volume of applicants. Training sessions for both students and faculty are also being planned to facilitate a smooth transition. As the university moves forward with this initiative, further details regarding timelines, infrastructure requirements, and candidate eligibility criteria are expected to be released. The success of the project will depend on effective communication, robust technical infrastructure, and continued collaboration among stakeholders. The UNAM’s commitment to sustainability and innovation underscores its role as a leader in addressing contemporary challenges faced by educational institutions.
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