This year’s results highlight several areas of continued strength and positive momentum across our work. BU ranked as the 17th UK university and in the 101-200 range globally.
We achieved a top 20 position globally for SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, placing 19th out of more than 1,600 universities across 116 countries. This is an outstanding result and reflects the depth and consistency of our work to embed sustainability into how we operate, procure, and manage resources. This covers ethical and responsible food policies, waste minimisation and management, and the high proportion of our campus waste which is recycled.
BU ranked 6th in the UK for SDG 13: Climate Action, moving up to 36th globally, improving from 44th last year. This reflects the impact of our ongoing efforts to reduce emissions, integrate climate considerations into decision-making, and support research and teaching that address the climate emergency. Specifically, our campus energy data shows a high proportion of our energy is from low carbon sources reflecting our investments in on campus renewable energy sources. Our case studies show how we’re supporting international disaster management through the AFRICAB project and collaborating with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO’s) on climate action, as demonstrated by Professor Rick Stafford’s research on artificial reef structures in Bali.
Our performance in SDG 15: Life on Land also remains strong, with BU ranking 17th in the UK and a 76th globally. This continues to demonstrate our commitment to improving biodiversity and protecting ecosystems, both on our campuses and through our wider research and partnerships. We have some fantastic research into forest resilience and reducing emissions from farming.
Together, these results underline our continued commitment to sustainability and our role in addressing some of the most pressing global challenges.
Our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alison Honour said: “These results reflect the dedication of our staff, students and partners in driving meaningful change. Sustainability is central to our mission and important given our unique regional context of Dorset, and while we recognise there is always more to do, it is encouraging to see our progress acknowledged globally. We will continue to build on this momentum as we work towards a more sustainable future.”
To view the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings, please head to the Times Higher Education website.
