Exeter placed 32nd globally in Sustainability Rankings

The University of Exeter has been placed 32nd globally in an influential environmental and social impact ranking, released on December 10^th 2024.

Exeter is ranked in the top 35 overall in the QS Sustainability Ranking 2025, which recognises the steps universities worldwide are taking to tackle the greatest Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) challenges. The University was also placed 19th in Europe, and 11^th  in the UK.

The rankings are calculated using publicly available information. Information has also been previously submitted by universities to QS in relation to sustainability goals.

The rankings cover three categories – Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance.

Exeter’s highest individual ranking was 3rd= globally for Health and Wellbeing, which forms part of the Social Impact lens – in recognition for its action and research into health and wellbeing.

The University also secured joint 24th place in Knowledge Exchange, 24th for Environmental Education and 25th for Environmental Research.

Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter said: “We are pleased to have been recognised as one of the world’s leading universities in sustainability once again in these important global rankings.

“Our strong position globally and nationally reflects our world-leading research and teaching in sustainability and the environment within our community. This latest ranking reflects  our commitment to creating real-world solutions  to help shape our environment both now, and for future generations.” 

The University declared a Climate Emergency in 2019 and has a dedicated team to address the agenda, a range of policies in place and a programmed plan of action to deliver environmental net gain and carbon net zero.

To learn more about the University’s sustainability agenda, please visit: https://www.exeter.ac.uk/about/sustainability/