We’ve been recognised as one of the world's top 35 universities for sustainability in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings.
The ratings assess how universities contribute to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
These SDGs aim to tackle global challenges including climate change, environmental protection, responsible consumption and social wellbeing
They provide an internationally agreed framework for assessing progress
Our ranking in 33rd place globally is our highest ever position in the Impact Ratings and it reflects the many ways sustainability is embedded across the University.
It is also the fourth consecutive year that we have improved our Rating and follows our recognition in the top 25 of this year’s QS World University Rankings for Sustainability.
Our strongest result came in SDG 15, Life on Land, where we ranked 7th in the world.
We ranked joint 11th globally for SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production, 23rd in the world for SDG 13, Climate Action.
Across all academic dimensions of teaching, research, and engagement with our partners, as well as on our estate, we’re working to create a thriving environment for humans and for nature.
Our researchers contribute to sustainability through groundbreaking research across all academic disciplines, and we have invested in major interdisciplinary research projects on sustainability.
On our own doorstep, we are protecting habitats, supporting biodiversity through our long-term Enhancing Biodiversity Strategy and ensuring sustainability is a key consideration when developing new buildings and restoring existing ones.
Our Botanic Garden, a ten-hectare garden set among beautiful, mature woodlands, plays an important role in this work.
Our students play an active role in our efforts. They learn about sustainability during their time with us, and they participate in project that drive sustainability.
Alongside this, we continue our efforts to reduce single use plastics across the University as part of our commitment to minimising our environmental impact.
The Ratings also recognised our work to encourage more responsible use of resources.
This reflects our research and our impactful practical actions including policies that reduce waste, limit the use of disposable items and support more sustainable ways of working.
Our annual sustainability reporting helps track progress and ensures transparency about the steps we’re taking to reduce our environmental footprint.
Our commitment to climate action extends beyond our campus, with Durham researchers annually attending United Nations Climate Change Conferences (COPs), contributing interdisciplinary expertise to global discussions.
Our contribution to communities, culture and public life was recognised in several areas of the rankings.
We achieved full marks for supporting arts and heritage, recognising the community benefits of our museums, libraries and concerts.
We ranked 34th globally for SDG 16, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
This reflects the quality of our research outputs that are relevant to peace and justice, our engagement with our Student Union, local communities, and our compliance with principles to prevent corruption and to promote transparency and academic freedom.
We are ranked 85th in the QS World University Rankings 2027, The Times and The Sunday Times University of the Year, and among the top five in UK university rankings.
Universities have an important role to play in sustainability, understanding and combatting climate change, stewarding our natural environment, preserving and exploring our cultural heritage, and promoting solutions for a habitable planet. This recognition reflects the commitment of our staff and students to making a positive difference locally and globally.
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