The University of Wollongong (UOW) has performed exceptionally well in the 2024 QS Sustainability Rankings announced on 5 December. UOW ranked equal 62nd in the world, up from 85th in last year’s rankings, and 11th in Australia.
The QS Sustainability Rankings highlight the different ways in which universities are taking action to tackle the world’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges. UOW was among 1403 institutions that participated in the rankings this year.
UOW Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Patricia M. Davidson said she was extremely proud of the rankings result and congratulated staff for contributing to this significant achievement.
“UOW community takes pride in reaffirming our commitment to delivering a positive societal and environmental impact,” Professor Davidson said.
“This achievement not only reflects our dedication to sustainability but also underscores our role as a catalyst for meaningful change.
“At UOW we believe in the transformative power of education, research, and responsible governance, shaping a future where societal equality and environmental stewardship stand as pillars of our global legacy.”
UOW ranked equal 90th globally in the environmental impact category, which includes environmental research, environmental education, and environmental sustainability.
In the societal impact category, which includes equality, health and wellbeing, impact of education, knowledge exchange and employability and outcomes, UOW ranked 63rd.
In a new category introduced this year to measure effective governance UOW ranked 30th, further highlighting the university’s commitment to excellence.
In June, the University also secured an impressive 61st place in the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Impact rankings, a further testament to the University’s commitment to sustainability and its dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
UOW has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030 and some University buildings are already net-zero when it comes to energy and water consumption.
UOW Shoalhaven campus already runs on 100 per cent net renewable energy. The Sustainable Buildings Research Centre building – with its 468 solar panels and green walls – produces more power than it consumes while harvesting rainwater to cover 100 per cent of its everyday water needs. The Sustainable Building Research Centre is a leader in developing green solutions that focus on providing cutting-edge holistic approach to sustainability.
UOW harvested 3.2 megalitres of rainwater while reducing its mains water consumption by 35 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by 10 per cent since 2019. UOW has also increased onsite solar generation on its campuses by 29 per cent since 2019, generating 5,387GJ of solar energy in 2022. These initiatives reflect UOW’s commitment to building a sustainable future through community engagement and partnerships.
