Surrey improves its position in the global sustainability rankings

Surrey is placed 55th in this year's global Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings. It’s the University’s highest position in the prestigious international tables which assess more than 1,400 universities' performance against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

 Professor Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, said:  

"These rankings demonstrate that the University of Surrey is going from strength to strength in advancing our mission to help create a fairer, healthier and more sustainable future for all through education, research and engagement."  

The ranking looks at how universities' research and operations are contributing to the SDGs. Operational performance includes a university’s efforts to reduce environmental impact, partnerships with local, national, and international bodies, as well as teaching and outreach work with schools and local communities.   

Surrey has improved its position from 61st in 2021 and 59th in 2020 in the THE Global Impact Rankings. 

Professor Bob Nichol, Executive Lead for Climate Change at the University of Surrey, said:    

“Creating a healthier and more sustainable society is something that matters a great deal to everyone at the University of Surrey – particularly our students – and it is why we are committed to being a sector leader on issues such as improving our estate and resource efficiency. This result shows we are on the right track, but we are excited about our future progress as we introduce teaching on sustainability in every course, along with a new project that will allow us to reach our net zero goal by 2030.”      

This year, Surrey submitted evidence under 13 of the 17 SDGs. Read more about the THE Impact Rankings 2022 on their website.   

Notes to editors  

Contact the University of Surrey press office via mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk