World leader
The University has been ranked 14th in the world in the 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Sustainability Impact Ratings, out of 1,603 universities.
The result means we rank top in Scotland, second in the UK and third in Europe. The THE Impact Ratings benchmark the performance of universities against the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The THE Impact Ratings assess universities’ performance against a broad range of sustainable development criteria. They consider commitment to addressing the world's most pressing challenges, including environmental sustainability, social inclusion, economic growth and partnerships.
The result of 14th globally maintains the University’s standing as a world leader in sustainable development.
We are ranked in the world’s top 50 in eight SDGs, and in the world’s top 25 for four SDGs:
- 10th globally in SDG 6, Clean Water and Sanitation
- 11th globally in SDG 12, Responsible Consumption and Production
- 22nd globally in SDG 17, Partnerships for the Goals
- 25th globally in SDG 16, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Andy Schofield said: “It is a real pleasure to see the University of Glasgow once again recognised as a global leader in sustainable development in the Times Higher Education Impact Ratings, maintaining our place in the world’s top 20.
“This sustained performance over the past five years reflects both the depth of our commitment and the strength of our leadership in tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing society today.
“The UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals continue to provide a powerful shared framework for our work. Across the University, we are bringing together our research, education and innovation to drive meaningful change, here in Glasgow and around the world.
“I’d like to thank our entire University community – colleagues, students and partners – for their continued dedication and collective effort in helping to realise these ambitions.”