University unveils landmark report on advancing UN Sustainable Development Goals
04 Nov 2024
As the UK’s first university to include social responsibility as a core goal, we have released a new report setting out how it is tackling the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We understand that there is an obligation on research universities to meet the challenges set out in the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and, as such, are committed to supporting the 17 issues outlined by the UN as the most pressing facing humanity and the natural world. These include quality education, gender equality, reduced inequalities, climate action and sustainable cities and communities.
Our strategy to meet these challenges is comprised of four inter-related strands:
- research
- learning and students
- public engagement
- operations.
In the Times Higher Education Impact rankings, based on performance across the 17 goals, we are the top-ranked institution in the UK and in Europe, and second in the world.
We are also the only university in the world to have featured in the global top 10 each year since the rankings were established in 2019. The University is also proud to be the top performing institution in Europe for Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance in the QS World University Sustainability Rankings.
Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement, commented on the new report: “This latest publication summarises some key ways that we’re addressing the world’s biggest action plan, reflected in the 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It is part of our broader commitment to reporting and sharing progress towards these important global goals.”
The report outlines that The University has published more than 22,000 pieces of research on the Sustainable Development Goals over the past five years, which is 4% of the UK's entire share of publications. It details teaching and learning programmes that address the SDGs, such as the 'Creating a Sustainable World' interdisciplinary unit.
The report also draws attention to the role of the University’s four cultural institutions, other initiatives that are engaging the public with the goals, and the ways in which people, estate and finance operations are contributing to sustainable development.
It is hoped the report stimulates the exchange of ideas, collaboration opportunities and partnerships so that, together, everyone can play a role in tackling these crucial goals by 2030.
You can download the Sustainable Development Goals report 2023-2025 here.