Within higher education, sustainability has evolved from a mere buzzword into a philosophy driving the fundamental principles of many UK universities. The idea isn't just about planting more trees or recycling; it's a comprehensive approach to education, operations, and community engagement. The significance lies in the deep impact these institutions can have, not only on their immediate surroundings but on a broader scale, influencing minds, policies, and the fabric of society.
Realising the urgency of global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality, UK universities' drive towards a sustainable future is the principled effort to meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations' needs.
Learn more about the best UK universities for sustainability below, and if you want to study at a green university in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.
Top 10 UK Universities for Sustainability
The 2024 QS World University Rankings for Sustainability are compiled using Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and a newly added Governance category. Find the most sustainable universities in the UK below.
1. University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is a sustainability champion committed to creating a better world. Through their "Our Sustainable Future" strategy, they pledge to use their knowledge and influence globally for a healthier, more sustainable planet.
The university takes social responsibility seriously, divesting from fossil fuels and achieving a remarkable 37% carbon intensity reduction. Their ambitious goals include reaching net zero emissions by 2038, reflecting a dedication to environmental leadership and a sustainable future for the university and the city of Manchester.
- University of Manchester acceptance rate: 56%
- Popular subjects: Arts and Humanities, Mathematics, Biology
- Percentage of international students: 32.4%
2. Imperial College London
Imperial College London emerges as a key player in sustainability, with a dedicated roadmap shaping its future endeavours. Established in 2020, the Sustainability Strategy Advisory Group ensures the practical implementation of sustainability across all campuses. The college aims to be sustainable and net-zero carbon by 2040, with ongoing efforts to advance this target.
Imperial prioritises responsible resource management, aligning with its vision for a resilient and smart society. ICL aims to drive positive change towards a sustainable future through academic excellence and active engagement with students and local communities.
- Imperial College London acceptance rate: 14.3%
- Popular subjects: Science, Engineering, Business, and Medicine.
- Percentage of international students: 60%
3. University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh plays a leading role in creating a sustainable world for the future generation, receiving international acclaim for its holistic approach to fighting the climate crisis. Awarded the 'whole systems approach' prize by the International Sustainable Campus Network, the university is recognised for reducing carbon emissions and integrating sustainability across research.
Ranked 29th globally for its contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the University of Edinburgh aligns its vision with a Social and Civic Responsibility Plan, focusing on becoming a net-zero carbon and zero-waste institution while promoting inclusivity and community collaboration.
- University of Edinburgh acceptance rate: 45-50%
- Popular subjects: Accounting & Finance, Computer Science, and Sports Science
- Percentage of international students: 44%
4. University of Bristol
The University of Bristol is a sustainability leader, illustrating a commitment to interdisciplinary, global, and equitable research. The university has significantly reduced emissions, with a remarkable 45% drop in operational-controlled properties from 2007-8 to 2020-21. Key initiatives, from heat pumps in residences to solar power installations, highlight their dedication. With a pledge to achieve a net-zero carbon campus by 2030, the University of Bristol exemplifies a proactive approach, aiming to reduce emissions and offset and eliminate them for a sustainable future.
- University of Bristol acceptance rate: 67%
- Popular subjects: Engineering, Medical Sciences, Arts
- Percentage of international students: 28%
5. Durham University
Durham University takes a notable stance in global sustainability efforts, earning recognition as a top institution for addressing crucial environmental, social, and governance challenges. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals, the university commits to fighting inequality, eradicating poverty, and tackling climate change.
Through a new Sustainability Strategy and Biodiversity Strategy, Durham publicly pledges to achieve Net Zero by 2035. The university's comprehensive approach includes policies on water reuse, underscoring its commitment to becoming one of the UK's most environmentally sustainable institutions.
- Durham University acceptance rate: 41%
- Popular subjects: Theology & Religion, Classics & Ancient History, Archaeology
- Percentage of international students: 23%
6. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow ranks 13th globally in the THE Impact Rankings among 1,591 institutions. This shows its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The university has pledged to divest from fossil fuels within a decade and declared a climate emergency, leading the charge for environmental responsibility. With a clear plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 and a comprehensive 2023 report focusing on research, learning, operations, and civic engagement, Glasgow is actively contributing to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
- University of Glasgow acceptance rate: 74%
- Popular subjects: Economics, MBA, Law
- Percentage of international students: 21%
7. University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield distinguishes itself as a sustainability leader through the Centre for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability (CEES). Its research spans various themes, including carbon footprinting, low-carbon technology, and sustainable development. In the 2021/22 academic year, the university achieved a significant 37% reduction in emissions since 2018.
Projects, such as LED lighting upgrades and energy-efficient improvements, show a commitment to environmental responsibility. Adding 1,000 energy metres enhances monitoring for strategic energy consumption management, aligning Sheffield with a low-carbon future.
- University of Sheffield acceptance rate: 85%
- Popular subjects: Nursing, Manufacturing Engineering, Architecture
- Percentage of international students: 25%
8. University of Sussex
The University of Sussex is a global leader in sustainability, ranking 1st in the world for Development Studies and 3rd in the UK for sustainable institutions. Recognised in the top 50 globally for impact against the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, Sussex is committed to making a difference.
The university’s sustainability strategy outlines objectives like implanting sustainability in student learning, reaching net zero by 2035, and promoting civic leadership and environmental consciousness. Sussex promotes decarbonisation, community impact, and environmental care, solidifying its position as a top university for sustainability.
- University of Sussex acceptance rate: 92%
- Popular subjects: Media Studies, English Literature, Geography
- Percentage of international students: 30%
9. University of York
The University of York boasts 100% divestment from fossil fuels, with no investments in the industry. Harnessing the sun's power, 80 solar panels generate 26,000kWh of solar energy annually on campus. Through initiatives like YORCUP and the latte levy, the university has saved over 1 million single-use cups and raised £54,000 since 2019.
With a green flag campus and a gold award for being cycle-friendly, York takes pride in its sustainable practices, earning a commendable 36th place globally in the QS World University Rankings 2024 Sustainability category.
- University of York acceptance rate: 78.5%
- Popular subjects: Archaeology, English Literature, Social Policy
- Percentage of international students: 13.5%
10. Newcastle University
Newcastle University is ranked among the top 5 in the UK and 25 globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023. The university is committed to race equality, holding a Bronze Race Equality Charter Award with a proud history, being the only UK institution to confer an honorary degree upon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Newcastle is also dedicated to gender equality, holding a Silver Athena Swan Award and actively promoting equality across campus. With a substantial budget for sustainability initiatives, totalling approximately £930k in 2021/22, Newcastle University underscores its commitment to making a positive impact.
- Newcastle University acceptance rate: 87%
- Popular subjects: Architecture, Linguistics, Dentistry
- Percentage of international students: 13.5%
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