University celebrates rise in sustainability league table

Published on 12, December, 2025

The University of Sunderland has risen 45 places in the People & Planet University League for its sustainability efforts.

The People & Planet University League is the only comprehensive and independent league table of UK universities ranked by environmental and ethical performance. It is compiled annually by the UK’s largest student campaigning network, People & Planet.

Institutions are assessed against criteria in categories including carbon reduction, environmental policy, waste management and education for sustainable development.

In the latest league table, released on Thursday 11 December, the University achieved 52^nd place and a 2:1 classification, reflecting significant progress from its previous 2:2. This rise highlights the positive impact of initiatives delivered across campus.

Over the past year, the University has taken meaningful steps on sustainability such as generating over 400,000 kWh of electricity from solar panels and installing thousands of energy efficient LED lights, helping reduce overall electricity use.

Keith Slater, Head of Environmental Sustainability at the University of Sunderland, said: "The improvement in score recognises the ongoing work to improve sustainability across the University. Coming on the back of our successes at the national Green Gown awards in November, it demonstrates the University's commitment to play a key role in overcoming the threats posed by climate change and other environmental and social challenges.

“We will continue to work to improve, with further projects planned to improve nature on campus, reduce carbon emissions and ensure that all students learn about sustainable development goals as part of their courses.

“This success is a testament to the ongoing hard work and shared commitment to sustainability across the University.”

The University’s environmental sustainability action was recognised by the Green Gown Awards UK & Ireland after it won two categories.

The Green Gown Awards, which showcase sustainable initiatives and best practices undertaken by universities and colleges across both the UK and Ireland, took place at the Library of Birmingham (November 6).

This year, the University of Sunderland were successful in winning two awards:

• Creating Impact: ‘Recover, Re-use, Repair & Produce’ to reduce waste in healthcare technical support
• Sustainability Champion (Staff) Gary Stubbs, Senior Lecturer in Film and Television Production

Find the 2025/26 People & Planet University League here.

For more information about how the University of Sunderland is helping create a more sustainable future here.

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