

Sustainable Development Goals
We are strongly committed to creating a sustainable future, and the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are woven into our research, teaching and day-to-day life at Surrey.
Through our Institute for Sustainability we are undertaking multidisciplinary research aimed at bringing us closer to sustainable living, net-zero energy, clean air for all, and sustainable prosperity. On our campuses we are committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and are working towards ambitious targets for heat de-carbonisation, solar power generation and electrifying our vehicle fleet, among other projects.
THE Impact Rankings 2023
The Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings are the global system which assesses universities’ performance against the UN SDGs. These goals will continue to define our culture and community, enabling us to help shape a fairer, healthier and more sustainable world in the future.
Find out more about sustainability at Surrey and our sustainability strategy led by the Executive Sustainability Steering Group.
What are Sustainable Development Goals?
The United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are aimed at achieving a better and more sustainable future for all by addressing the global challenges we face today such as poverty, inequality, climate change and environmental degradation.
The 17 Goals were adopted by all UN Member States in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which set out a 15 year plan to achieve the Goals.
Over 300
Of our health science students deployed in the NHS during first wave of Covid-19 pandemic
80
Upcycled bird boxes installed across campus ready for the bird nesting season
12 schools/departments
Hold Athena SWAN awards to recognise their work towards the advancement of gender equality

Sustainable development goals annual report
Our report showcases what we achieved in 2020/2021 to meet the United Nations 17 sustainable development goals.
Key SDG projects

Scientists call for a tree planting drive to help tackle heatwaves
18 September 2023

New research published by Nature Food reveals food is primary driver of the EU-27’s outsized Ecological Footprint
14 September 2023

Surrey wins Cannes World Film Festival award with sustainability animation
6 September 2023