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QS World University Rankings 2025: Sustainability

On December 10, 2024, QS Quacquarelli Symonds unveiled the third edition of the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability. This year's report includes a staggering 1,740 universities from 107 countries, marking a significant global effort towards sustainability in higher education. The rankings are a crucial indicator of how universities are adapting to the pressing challenges posed by climate change and social responsibility.

Leading the Pack: University of Toronto

Topping the list for the second consecutive year is the University of Toronto in Canada, which has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through various initiatives. Prof. Meric Gertler, the university’s president, expressed pride in this achievement, stating that the recognition solidifies their drive toward fostering a sustainable future.

Top 10 Universities for Sustainability 2025

1. University of Toronto (Canada)
2. ETH Zurich (Switzerland)
3. Lund University (Sweden)
3. University of California, Berkeley (USA)
5. UCL (UK)
5. University of British Columbia (Canada)
7. Imperial College London (UK)
7. The University of Edinburgh (UK)
9. The University of Manchester (UK)
9. The University of Melbourne (Australia)

This year's rankings saw several notable changes. ETH Zurich jumped from the 18th spot last year to second place, while Lund University and UC Berkeley shared the third position. Canadian universities lead with two in the top five, emphasizing Canada's significant role in global sustainability education.

Global Representation

The report highlighted that the United States remains in the lead regarding the number of universities ranked, with 239 institutions making the list. However, it was noted that while UC Berkeley is tied for third, the average score of U.S. universities is lower than that of their counterparts in Europe and Australasia.

In terms of regional representation, six Asian universities from four countries were among the top 100, with the University of Tokyo being the highest-ranked at 44th. China followed with Fudan University at 133rd, marking a decrease in rankings for many of its institutions despite having 114 entries.

Progress in Other Regions

In the same breath, Africa marks its presence with seven universities within the top 500, led by the University of Cape Town, ranked 45th. Australia secured 14 universities in the top 100, with the University of Melbourne maintaining its high status at ninth.

New Zealand is also noteworthy, with all eight universities making it to the top 500, led by the University of Auckland at 17th.

Conclusion

The QS World University Rankings for Sustainability not only serve to celebrate excellence in sustainability practices among universities but also to inspire institutions to adopt better practices to combat environmental challenges. As the world faces increasing ecological crises, the impact of these rankings could encourage a shift in the educational approach to sustainability, ensuring future leaders are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge throughout their academic journeys.

This ranking system plays a vital role in motivating change, fostering competition, and ultimately leading to a more sustainable future for higher education across the globe.