The University of Plymouth has been named as one of the top 25 institutions globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2021.
The rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In its first appearance in the tables, Plymouth has been ranked 23rd of more than 1,100 universities, reinforcing its reputation for world-leading and award-winning sustainability research and teaching.
It also achieved considerable worldwide success in a number of individual tables including globally first in marine research and teaching and ninth for its efforts to support the Sustainable Development Goals through collaboration with other countries, the promotion of best practices and the publication of data.
The university was also in the top 20 in the world for its research on hunger, teaching on food sustainability and its commitment to tackle food waste and address hunger among students and local communities. It achieved top 50 rankings in relation to affordable and clean energy and sustainable cities and communities.
Professor Judith Petts, Vice-Chancellor of the university is one of four sector leaders heading up a Climate Commission for UK Higher and Further Education Leaders.
She said:
“This is an outstanding achievement and a ringing endorsement of our excellence in all aspects of sustainability. At a time when climate change is at the forefront of people’s minds, particularly with the UK hosting the G7 summit and Climate Change Conference in 2021, this global endorsement will support our efforts to ensure our work and knowledge continue to have both impact and influence.
“This ranking celebrates decades of building on our core strengths, investing in research teams and facilities and, in particular, it reinforces our leadership in all things marine and rightfully positions us at the global forefront of this field.
“It acknowledges our long-standing partnerships with industry and academia, and our long-standing commitment to use our own sustainability practices to inspire change on a local, regional, and international scale.”
