About us

The University of Surrey is working hard to improve its sustainability across environmental, economic and social aspects of its activity. The University is integrating sustainability into all eight core policies, starting with our operations policy (PDF). We will deliver the key aims within each of the policies through a delivery plan(s).

Our vision

We will be synonymous with sustainability literacy, applied best practice, research and leadership.

Education – we will develop students’ awareness of sustainability through curricular and co-curricular provision
Research – we will lead on sustainable research, drawing in private as well as public funding
Operations and influence – we will set challenging targets to reduce our environmental impact, and use our influence to help others become more sustainable
Students – our students will go on to promote life-long sustainable solutions into all sectors across the world.

Sustainable Development Goals

To reflect our corporate commitment to embedding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in our operations and education, we have signed the Sustainable Development Goals Accord. This asserts us to align all major efforts with the SDGs by collaborating with key stakeholder groups and other signatory institutions.

101-200th

Surrey is ranked 101-200th in the THE University Impact Rankings 2025

Highlights from the Times Higher Impact ranking (2024)

31st for SDG 10 - Reduced inequalities

Reduce inequality within and among countries.

32nd for SDG 11 - Sustainable cities and communities

Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

44th for SDG 8 - Decent work and economic growth

Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.

58th for SDG 12 - Responsible consumption and production

Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

69th for SDG 6 - Clean water and sanitation

Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all

72nd for SDG 13 - Climate action

Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Concordat for the Environmental Sustainability of Research and Innovation Practice

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.

The voluntary concordat has been co-developed by the UK research and innovation (R&I) sector and represents a shared ambition for the UK to continue delivering cutting-edge research, but in a more environmentally responsible and sustainable way.

Letter of confirmation

Annual reports

Every year the University releases a Sustainability Annual Report to highlight key successes in reducing carbon emissions and embedding sustainability, as well as a Sustainable Development Goals Report to showcase how we're meeting the United Nations 17 sustainable development goals.

Read the latest Sustainable Report (2023-2024) (PDF)
Read the latest Sustainable Development Goals Annual Report (2023) (PDF).