Top Universities in 2023 with Climate Action (THE)

Universities have a crucial role in determining the future in a world that is struggling with the urgent need for climate action. As 2023 approaches, Times Higher Education (THE) has re-taken the responsibility of assessing and honouring academic institutions throughout the globe for their efforts to mitigate climate change. This blog explores the best institutions that are notable for their dedication to environmental responsibility, sustainability, and cutting-edge projects tackling the global climate catastrophe.

Top Universities in 2023 with Climate Action (THE)

• University of Tasmania: The University of Tasmania (UTAS) stands out as a leader in climate action within the education sector due to its unwavering commitment to addressing one of the most critical issues of our time – climate change. Recognizing the urgency of the global climate crisis, UTAS has consistently ranked high in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ratings, securing the #1 spot globally in 2022 for its efforts towards achieving Goal 13 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. UTAS goes beyond rhetoric, actively taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint while fostering a culture of research and innovation. The university’s fortunate position enables it not only to implement emission reduction measures but also to facilitate groundbreaking research aimed at discovering novel ways to make a meaningful impact. Notably, UTAS’s postgraduate students have undertaken compelling research projects, such as a PhD study on the impacts of sea-level rise on university properties and Masters research focused on diverting organic waste from landfills. Moreover, UTAS actively involves students of all levels in climate-related projects through the Sustainability Integration Project for Students (SIPS), emphasizing the importance of empowering the next generation to play a pivotal role in addressing the climate challenge. The University of Tasmania’s holistic approach, from emissions reduction to impactful research and student involvement, solidifies its position as a beacon of climate action in the global academic landscape.
• UNSW Sydney: UNSW Sydney has positioned itself as a powerhouse for climate action, making it a standout institution in the realm of environmental sustainability. Demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond mere rhetoric, UNSW Sydney prioritizes tackling climate change as a top environmental sustainability priority for its students, staff, and communities. Under the’ Climate action’ theme, the university has implemented a multifaceted approach, addressing operational emissions through the transition to renewable energy and campus electrification, while simultaneously reducing value chain emissions by engaging with key suppliers and divesting from fossil fuel investment holdings. UNSW Sydney’s dedication is evident in its annual completion of a comprehensive value chain emission inventory, showcasing transparency and accountability. By actively engaging with suppliers and divesting from fossil fuels, this university not only reduces its own carbon footprint but also influences broader systemic change, solidifying its position as a leader in climate action within the academic landscape.
• University of Victoria: The University of Victoria (UVic) distinguishes itself as a trailblazer in environmental, social, and institutional sustainability, making it a notable leader in climate action. Anchored in its Strategic framework, UVic approaches the challenge of global leadership in sustainability through holistic lens, integrating research, academic programs, and campus operations. The Climate and Sustainability Action Plan 2030 (CSAP) exemplifies UVic’s commitment to a comprehensive and unique approach, uniting various facets of the university, including academics, research, Indigenous, international relations, and community engagement. Notably, UVic’s relational responsibilities underscore a commitment to honoring past, present, and future generations by integrating local Indigenous Knowledge Systems and worldviews into climate action goals. The university sets ambitious targets in greenhouse gas emissions, sustainability, and the advancement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating a clear roadmap for achieving a 50% reduction in campus operations greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, achieving Net Zero emissions by 2040, and ultimately becoming a climate-positive campus by 2050. UVic’s commitment to achieving STARS Platinum rating certification and advancing UN SDGs further solidifies its standing as a university dedicated to transformative climate action.
• University of British Columbia: The University of British Columbia (UBC) stands out as a leader in climate action through its forward-thinking UBC Climate Action Plan 2030 (CAP 2030). This plan demonstrates a firm commitment to an accelerated path toward net zero emissions for buildings and energy supply, coupled with a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across extended impact areas over the next 15 years. What sets UBC apart is its recognition of the intersectionality between climate action and social justice. Acknowledging that privilege and inequality may constrain sustainable actions, UBC integrates principles of climate justice into its approach, particularly concerning food systems, commuting, and business air travel. The university is committed to identifying and removing barriers to choosing sustainable alternatives, ensuring an equitable shift in cultural norms. UBC’s holistic and socially conscious approach to climate action positions it as a beacon for universities striving not only for environmental sustainability but also for a more just and equitable future.
• Simon Fraser University– Simon Fraser University (SFU) emerges as a leader in climate action through its comprehensive and ambitious sustainability initiatives outlined in the SFU 2025 Sustainability Plan. In response to the global climate crisis, SFU’s plan mobilizes the entire institution to embed climate action across operations, research, academics, and community engagement. The university is committed to the United Nations-backed Race To Zero campaign, setting ambitious emission reduction targets and pledging full divestment from fossil fuels by 2025. SFU goes beyond declarations, formally recognizing a global climate emergency and committing to sustained and meaningful action. The university’s dedication extends to sourcing 100% renewable energy, investing in projects like the Corix Biomass Plant, and advocating for low-carbon transportation. STFU’s commitment to measuring and reducing the carbon footprint of its investment portfolio and prioritizing climate change research in its Strategic Research Plan further solidify its position as a trailblazer in climate action within the academic landscape. Through collaborations, courses, and investments, SFU is actively contributing to sustainable solutions and aligning its actions with Canada’s national climate commitments.
• Arizona State University: Arizona State University (ASU) distinguishes itself in climate action by recognizing the profound impact of climate instability, especially in the challenging desert Southwest environment. ASU’s commitment to addressing the intersection of human activities and a changing climate is evident in its climate research initiatives. Researchers focus on understanding how these dynamics affect each other, developing policies to mitigate unfavorable climatic conditions and devising strategies to meet human needs amidst uncertainty. ASU’s emphasis on the unique challenges faced by urban dwellers in arid regions, such as long-term drought and the urban heat island effect, underscores its commitment to practical, region-specific solutions. Notably, ASU’s Decision Theater Network serves as a hub for collaborative problem-solving, bringing together researchers and leaders to visualize solutions to complex climate-related problems. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies for data visualization and simulation, ASU actively contributes to cross-disciplinary efforts on local, national, and international levels, showcasing its dedication to finding innovative and actionable responses to the impacts of climate change.
• Western Sydney University: Western Sydney University (Western) stands out as a frontrunner in climate action, as evidenced by its Sustainability and Resilience Decadal Strategy 2030 and the core principle of sustainability in its strategic 5-year plan, ‘Sustaining Success 2021-2026. ‘The university’s achievements in climate action across campus operations, education, and research have propelled it to global recognition, ranking 17th worldwide in the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking for SDG 13 Climate Action in 2021. With institutional operational targets of 100% renewables in energy supplies by 2026 and carbon neutrality by 2030, Western is making rapid progress toward these goals. Operational initiatives, including a Sustainable energy strategy, an environmental sustainability Action Plan, and a Carbon Neutrality Implementation Plan, align with the Australian Government’s Climate Active program, demonstrating Western’s commitment to translating its climate action goals into tangible results. Notably, the university has achieved 100% renewables in its electricity supply contracts four years ahead of the original target, marking a significant reduction in its organizational carbon footprint and showcasing Western’s dedication to fast-tracking impactful climate initiatives.
• University of Exeter: The University of Exeter has emerged as a global leader in climate action, securing the 8th position worldwide and 1st in Europe for its impact towards achieving SDG 13, Climate Action. Recognizing the severe threats posed by climate change, particularly in terms of flooding, extreme heat, and resource scarcity, the university has prioritized research that has proven instrumental in shaping public policy both nationally and internationally. The work of Professor Tim Lenton and colleagues on climate tipping points has significantly influenced global goals to limit warming, cited in policy responses to the 2015 Paris Agreement. The University’s commitment extends beyond research, leading initiatives like the CCRA3 Technical Report in collaboration with the Climate Change Committee, assessing climate risks to the UK. The development of the ReefBudget tool, adopted globally for coral reef conservation, showcases the university’s impactful contributions. Having declared an environment and climate emergency, Exeter has set an ambitious plan to achieve net zero by 2030, exemplified by the Exeter Living Lab and Civic University agreements, reflecting its dedication to a sustainable and resilient future. With 100% renewable energy use and active involvement in regional initiatives, like the Devon Net Zero Task Force, the University of Exeter stands as a beacon of commitment and action in the face of the climate crisis. 

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, universities have a crucial role to play in shaping a sustainable future. The top universities in 2023, as recognized by Times Higher Education, are not only leaders in academia but also pioneers in the global effort to combat climate change. By prioritizing sustainability in research, operations, and education, these institutions serve as beacons of hope and inspiration, setting the standard for a more sustainable and resilient world. As we move forward, it is essential for universities worldwide to learn from these examples and integrate climate action into their core mission, fostering a collective commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations.