WSU, leader in sustainable development

Western Sydney University (WSU) has been named number one in the world for its social, ecological and economic impact in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings.

WSU placed first in Australia and first overall worldwide in the prestigious annual rankings, which assess universities on their commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The rankings are based on universities’ teaching, research, outreach and stewardship. This is the fourth year of the THE University Impact Rankings, with Western Sydney University topping the list out of more than 1,400 institutions.

Several factors contributed to the university’s ranking success, including embracing Indigenous pathways to sustainability and the unique biodiversity of the Western Sydney region.

WSU’s decadal strategy, Sustainability and Resilience 2030, also underpins the university’s commitment to SDGs. The strategy addresses climate adaptation and mitigation, and social inequality. It is underpinned by the university’s Sustainable Energy Plan which states that campus operations will use 100% renewable energy by 2025 and be carbon neutral by 2030. Already, electricity supply across all WSU campuses is 100% Green Power accredited – four years ahead of target.

Read more about WSU’s impact ranking across the SDG categories here.