Swansea University is once again among the top 10 per cent of universities for environmental and ethical issues, according to the latest UK People & Planet University League published by The Guardian.
It has been rated as a first-class institution and ranked 13th out of all the UK universities assessed by the student-led campaigning network.
The result recognises the leadership and commitment Swansea has shown to research with impact for sustainable development, teaching that tackles global challenges and to providing environmentally responsible campuses.
The People & Planet University League evaluates policies and performance across areas such as carbon reduction, energy use, waste, water, sustainable food, ethical investment, workers’ rights and considers research and education for sustainable development, producing an overall sustainability ranking for each institution.
The University has already cut carbon emissions from its campuses and fleet by 45 per cent and is advancing plans to become nature positive, circular, and waste-free.
Other milestones include:
- A fully funded decarbonisation programme converting 22 buildings from gas boilers to renewable air-source heat;
- Implementing a smart-building programme including installation of 7,500 automatic LED lights and generation of renewable energy from 3,500 campus roof mounted solar panels;
- More than 1.3 hectares of the campuses being managed as wildflower meadows, with four species of orchid appearing in areas that had previously been mown lawn, and priority conservation species such as brown-banded carder bees, small blue and small heath butterflies thriving; and,
- 62 per cent of what was previous disposed of as campus waste is now reused and recycled.
These projects support Swansea’s pathway to net zero by 2035 and its Nature Positive pledge as well as enhancing wellbeing of staff, students, and the wider community.
Earlier in the year the University also achieved 36th place globally in the 2025 Times Higher Education UN SDG Impact Rankings, placing it among the world’s leading universities for teaching and research sustainability impact.
Swansea University Registrar and Chief Operating Officer Niamh Lamond said: “At Swansea University we believe in leading by example. Whether through research, teaching, or showcasing decarbonisation across our campuses, we are proud to be driving change at scale.
“Being environmentally sustainable not only aligns with our purpose, but also brings efficiencies and operational savings that support the University's financial sustainability.”
Sustainability Manager Teifion Maddocks added: “Being in the top 10 per cent is a tremendous achievement and reflects the passion and commitment of our staff and students.
“Our position demonstrates Swansea’s strength as one of just a few research-led universities at the top of the table, addressing the operational impacts of a large complex organisation and enabling positive academic outcomes for people and planet.”
Learn more about Sustainability at Swansea University
Read the People & Planet University League in full