By Izzy Morris
Durham University has once again been recognised as one of the world’s leading higher education institutions for environmental and social sustainability, placing 24th globally in the 2026 QS World University Rankings.
The ranking, which assessed 2,001 universities worldwide, also places Durham ninth in the UK and 13th in Europe, with an overall sustainability score of 95.8. This marks Durham’s third consecutive year in the global top 25, continuing a steady rise in score.
In previous years, Durham ranked 22nd for 2025 (score 95.4), 19th in 2024 (score 92.6) and 53rd in the inaugural 2023 ranking (score 71.7). The QS Sustainability Rankings evaluate institutions across the three pillars of Environmental Impact, Social Impact and Governance.
This marks Durham’s third consecutive year in the global top 25, continuing a steady rise in score
Drawing on university-submitted data, QS reputation surveys and metrics from organisations including the UN, UNESCO, and the World Bank, the methodology examines contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, campus environmental initiatives, equality and diversity efforts, research impact, and responsible institutional governance.
Durham’s position reflects both its global research influence and its on-campus sustainability commitments. The University’s work feeds directly into international frameworks such as the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement, and Agconcludea 2030, with staff contributing research on climate law, sea-level rise, human rights, sustainable economic development, and gconcludeer-inclusive climate policy.
At COP30 in Brazil, Durham researchers and students led an official UN-accredited side event and launched the Durham Declaration on Climate Change and Sustainability.
Closer to home, Durham’s refreshed Sustainability and Biodiversity Strategies commit the University to achieving net-zero carbon by 2035 and biodiversity net-gain by 2032. Initiatives such as Greenspace, MammalWeb, hedgehog-friconcludely accreditation, wildflower restoration, and the creation of new habitats across the estate have earned national recognition, including multiple Green Gown Awards.
Durham states it remains committed to turning ambition into action as it continues its trajectory as a global sustainability leader.
Featured image: Mark Norton, Palatinate
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