RGU breaks into higher global tier for sustainability impact

The rise from the 301-400 band marks significant progress and reflects the University’s growing contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underpinned by its distinctive “learn it, live it” approach to education and research.  

RGU has achieved particularly strong results in: 

• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth (101-200 band) 
• SDG 10: Reducing Inequalities (101-200 band) 

These strengths align directly with the University’s long‑standing commitment to preparing students for the world of work while creating inclusive opportunities for individuals and communities. 

Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Steve Olivier said: 

“Moving up in the global Sustainability Impact Ratings reflects what happens when we connect learning, industry and community in a purposeful way. At RGU, sustainability is not a standalone priority - it is embedded in how we teach, partner and innovate to deliver real benefits for society. Our progress in areas such as decent work and reducing inequalities demonstrates the tangible difference our approach makes.” 

Turning learning into impact 

RGU’s performance highlights the strength of its professionally focused, work‑integrated model, where students engage with employers, live projects and applied research from day one. 

This approach delivers measurable impact across key areas: 

• Employability and economic contribution, through industry‑aligned courses and strong graduate outcomes. 
• Inclusive access and participation, supporting diverse student communities and tackling structural inequalities.  
• Partnership‑led innovation, addressing real‑world challenges across sectors including energy, health and the built environment.  

The results also reflect RGU’s role in supporting a just transition to a low‑carbon economy, including research and policy influence on workforce transformation in the energy sector.  

Sustainability embedded across the University 

RGU’s progress is underpinned by a whole‑institution commitment to sustainability, embedded across its operations, teaching, research and community engagement.  

Key achievements include: 

• A commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2045  
• A 54% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions since 2015, ahead of target  
• Investment of over £5 million in carbon reduction initiatives across the estate 
• Delivery of major biodiversity and climate adaptation projects, including the Waterside Farm restoration, a flagship nature‑positive initiative supporting habitat recovery and community engagement  

Sustainability is also embedded in the student experience, with over 90% satisfaction in sustainable development learning and growing participation in climate and social impact initiatives.  

University Secretary and Vice-Principal Governance Veronica Strachan said:  

“These results recognise the collective effort of our staff, students and partners. By working together, we are translating sustainability from ambition into action - whether that’s through research addressing global challenges, partnerships that drive inclusive growth, or the everyday choices that shape our campus and community.” 

A distinctive, purpose‑led university 

Founded on a commitment to opportunity and access, RGU continues to build on its heritage as a university shaped by partnership, community and real‑world application. 

This distinctive, impact‑driven approach has been recognised nationally, with RGU named Higher Education Institution of the Year at The Herald Higher Education Awards - highlighting its leadership in delivering meaningful outcomes for students, industry and society. 

The University’s strength is further reflected in its position as the top modern university in Scotland in the Complete University Guide 2027, underlining the quality of its teaching, student experience and graduate prospects. 

Together, these accolades reinforce RGU’s standing as a university defined not only by performance in rankings, but by its ability to translate purpose into tangible impact - locally, nationally and globally.

Photo by Jiri Vaigl