Sustainability
Video: Social Responsibility and Sustainability at the University of Edinburgh ISCN
The University’s efforts to fight the climate crisis have been recognised with an international award. The International Sustainable Campus Network named the University the winner of its ‘whole systems approach’ award. The prize recognises work to reduce carbon emissions and embed sustainability into research, teaching and governance, operations, and partnerships. It comes just weeks after the University was ranked 29th in the world for its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

A sustainable world is one in which our environmental systems and societies flourish, natural resources are able to replenish themselves, and people are able to live healthy and secure lives.

The University of Edinburgh is ranked 15th in the world and 3rd in the UK for our success in creating a more sustainable world through our research, teaching, partnerships and operations.

We want everyone in our community - our students, our staff and our partners - to work with us to build a more sustainable future for all.

Social and civic responsibility is a key focus for the University as described in Strategy 2030.

Strategy 2030

Climate Strategy

Progress across all areas of the Social and Civic Responsibility Plan.

Our progress in 2021-22

Progress in previous years Recognition

Two female scientists sitting in a small boat wearing cold water wetsuits with the ocean and an iceberg just behind them

The University of Edinburgh is ranked globally for its excellence in research, teaching and innovation. Our academics are at the forefront of applying cutting edge research to help communities adapt and mitigate the effects of the climate emergency.

Find out how the University is working to allow all students to experience sustainability in their curriculum.

Plant growth facility - Edinburgh Innovations

The University of Edinburgh is ranked 5th in the world for industry, innovation and infrastructure. The team at Edinburgh Innovations provide access to world leading circular economy and sustainability expertise and are committed to working with partners to develop new solutions to help address the global climate crisis and deliver long-term sustainability for business.

ECA roof solar panels - Estates staff, photographer: Mark K Jackson

We will become a zero carbon and zero waste University. We are developing and pioneering approaches to deliver a zero carbon and circular economy, protecting and enhancing biodiversity.

Stay up to date on sustainability at the University