press release
Published: 24 February 2025

University reaffirms commitment to sustainability by signing Concordat

The University of Surrey has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating sustainability into its core policies by signing the Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice.

campus photo, very green

The Concordat, co-developed by the UK research and innovation sector, represents a shared ambition for the UK to continue delivering cutting-edge research, but in a more environmentally responsible and sustainable way.

Its six priority areas align with ongoing action taken by the University:

  • Leadership and system change,
  • Sustainable infrastructure
  • Sustainable procurement
  • Emissions from business and academic travel
  • Collaborations and partnerships
  • Environmental impact and reporting data.

In signing the Concordat, President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Max Lu highlighted the University’s proud track record of promoting and supporting sustainability initiatives across campus and through research.

“Through our sustainability activities, we aim to be recognised as a research leader across the sector, building on our heritage of over 30 years of excellence in interdisciplinary sustainability research. In 2022, the University launched the pan-university Institute for Sustainability to break new ground in producing world-class research, innovation and education that addresses urgent global sustainability challenges.

Our commitments extend beyond research to our leadership and on campus operations. As echoed in the Concordat, we are already working on managing sustainable infrastructure, applying sustainable procurement practices, engaging with accreditations such as The Laboratory Efficiency Assessment Framework (LEAF) and working towards net zero, as outlined in our annual sustainability reports. Professor Lu Max, President and Vice-Chancellor
The University of Surrey recognises the importance of conducting research in a way that supports and protects the environment for the good of all and this ethos is an integral part of our University-wide sustainability strategy.

Our Institute for Sustainability fosters strong and impactful interdisciplinary research partnerships, which are reinforced by this Concordat, highlighting our commitment to collaborative research as together we work collectively towards a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. Professor Lisa Collins, Pro Vice Chancellor, Research and Innovation

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