UCL ranks 1st within the UK and third globally in QS Sustainability Rankings | UCL Information

UCL has strengthened its place as a world chief in sustainability, rating 1st within the UK, 2nd in Europe and third globally within the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026.

UCL has moved up two spots this 12 months from joint 5^th to three^rd. With an general rating of 99 out of 100, UCL continues to reveal the influence of its analysis, schooling and operations. 

The QS Sustainability Rankings assess how universities deal with the world’s most urgent environmental and social challenges. Over 2,000 establishments are evaluated throughout indicators reminiscent of environmental influence, social accountability and governance. UCL’s efficiency displays its dedication to making a more healthy, fairer and extra sustainable future, as outlined in our new 10-year sustainability plan. 

UCL’s standout achievements in the 2026 QS Sustainability Rankings: 

• Knowledge Exchange – 1st globally and within the UK

From pioneering local weather prediction methods to advancing sustainable aviation analysis, UCL’s efforts to foster partnerships between developed and creating areas have been recognised. UCL is on the forefront of progressive considering, driving academic development and creating constructive impacts for each native and international communities, by collaborations with organisations such because the National Trust and the European Space Agency. By working intently with companions and the broader neighborhood, we proceed to develop analysis excellence and ship options that deal with the world’s most urgent challenges.

• Health and Wellbeing: joint 4th globally and joint 1^st within the UK

This displays UCL’s dedication to selling the wellbeing of its college students, workers and society at giant by progressive well being initiatives and forward-thinking insurance policies round psychological assist and wellbeing. UCL was among the many first universities to attain the University Mental Health Charter Mark and continues to steer by companies reminiscent of Psychological First Aid, partnerships with the NHS, and analysis and innovation by the Grand Challenge of Mental Health and Wellbeing. 

• Governance – joint 3^rd globally and joint 2^nd within the UK

UCL’s sturdy governance framework embeds sustainability into each determination. The UCL 2034 Strategy and the Strategic Plan 2022-27 will guarantee transparency and accountability by rigorous reporting on carbon discount, equality, range and inclusion, and monetary sustainability. 

• Environmental Sustainability – 5^th globally and a pair of^nd within the UK

This displays UCL’s sustainable operations, instructing, and analysis. Since 2019, now we have minimize constructing power emissions by 56%, transitioned to renewable electrical energy, and opened PEARL, our first net-zero carbon constructing. 

Driving change by the brand new UCL Sustainability Plan (2025–2035) 

Building on these achievements, UCL has launched the Sustainability Plan 2025–2035, a roadmap for formidable and measurable progress over the following decade. The plan units out clear objectives and overview factors in 2027 and 2030 to make sure transparency and accountability. Key commitments embrace: 

• Net zero carbon emissions for our personal buildings and power use by 2030 (generally known as Scopes 1 and 2 when categorising emissions), and from every part else, together with oblique emissions, by 2040, a decade forward of presidency targets.

• Enhancing biodiversity throughout campus and our provide chains, aiming for a 20% biodiversity internet achieve by 2034.

• Embedding sustainability in schooling and instructing, in addition to harnessing UCL’s analysis strengths to handle international challenges, from local weather prediction methods to sustainable laboratory practices.

Dr Michael Spence, UCL President & Provost, stated: “Achieving 3rd place globally and 1st in the UK in the QS Sustainability Rankings is an outstanding accomplishment. With more than 2,000 institutions assessed, this result reflects the commitment of our staff, students and partners to building a healthier, fairer and more sustainable world. As we launch our new UCL Sustainability Plan (2025–2035), we are reaffirming our dedication to bold action and collaboration to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges and create a better future for all.” 

Professor Lisa Vanhala, who’s a UCL Pro-Vice-Provost (Climate Crisis) alongside Professor Mark Maslin, stated: “Ranking first globally for knowledge exchange is a phenomenal achievement and speaks to UCL’s unique strength in connecting research with real-world solutions. Whether it’s influencing climate policy, partnering with industry to accelerate innovation, or working with communities to co-create change, we are proud to see UCL recognised as a global leader.’’  

Jessica Turner, CEO of QS, said: “The UK has the highest number of institutions in the top 10, top 50, and top 200 of the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026. This year’s results demonstrate the UK sector’s strong commitment to societal and environmental sustainability, and its continued innovation in pursuit of a more equal, fair, and just world.

“Our Sustainability Rankings feed directly into the QS World University Rankings. We recognise institutions that translate climate ambition and social purpose into measurable progress. This aligns closely with the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy and Post-16 reforms, which emphasise net-zero leadership, regional growth, and equipping learners with the skills required for a greener, fairer economy.”

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Chris Lane

tel: +44 20 7679 9222  / +44 (0) 7717 728648

E: chris.lane [at] ucl.ac.uk

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