News / University of Bristol
University ranks 6th in global sustainability index
The University of Bristol has been recognised for its sustainability efforts in a ranking of global institutions.
This year’s Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings placed Bristol at number 56 in a list of 1,646 universities across 117 countries and territories.
The index is the only global metric which evaluates higher education institutions on their commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which incorporate environmental and public health targets including zero hunger, gender equality, climate action and clean energy.
Its overall rating of 56 is a significant improvement on last year’s placing outside the top 100, and Bristol University also placed sixth best in the world in the Sustainable Cities and Communities category, 14th for Responsible Consumption and Production, and 15th for Life on Land.
The university has installed recycling points on campus and reuses furniture through its Re-Store scheme
Recognition was given for the university’s research into how cities, home to over 80 per cent of the global population, can become more environmentally sustainable.
The index also recognised its local climate action, including that 82 per cent of staff journeys are made by walking, cycling, public transport or car sharing.
The university’s Re-Store scheme has ensured nearly 800 items of office furniture, amounting to almost 14 tonnes of waste, and 19 tonnes of electronic equipment have been reused rather than discarded.
Initiatives have reduced food waste in catered halls by 23 per cent in the last year, equating to a saving of around one billion tonnes of carbon emissions.
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A long term biodiversity strategy is helping to support nature on and off campus.
The university’s Botanic Garden harbours threatened species from the region while its 100-acre arable farm in Long Ashton, Fenswood, proves a working study of the transition to regenerative agriculture and a mixed habitat site for wildlife as well as research into bees, soil and ecology.
And a campus ‘tree app’ encourages students and staff to visit and learn about the 4,900 trees on its map.
On the rating Professor Michele Acuto, vice-chancellor for global engagement, said: “This is a fantastic result for the university and a testament to the commitment of our community to sustainability and making the world a better place.
“Ranking 56th in the world, and as high as 6th in key areas, reflects the real impact of our work in addressing global challenges and supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”
The University of Manchester came first in the list, with an overall score of 98.5. UWE Bristol was placed 255th.
All images: University of Bristol
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