Environmental, Social and Economic Sustainability
A World Leader in Sustainability
We’ve been recognised as one of the top universities in the world for taking action to address the most pressing Environment, Social and Governance challenges facing society today.
Sustainability research through the Strategic Research Fund
We are making a major commitment to Sustainability research through Durham's Strategic Research Fund (SRF). The SRF aims to stimulate significant growth in research income for the University through substantial investments in our research capability, community, and infrastructure.
Our commitment to deliver solutions
We are committed to delivering solutions to the net-zero transition. We are well-placed to contribute to delivering solutions in the broad areas of energy, food, health, social impact and water.
Find out more about our work on sustainability
Our Offer of Educational Programmes
Our educational programmes on sustainability help make a positive long-term difference. We offer a wide range of Undergraduate and Postgraduate programmes, covering many subject areas to help our students become global leaders of change. We also offer free online courses and videos.
Nurturing tomorrow's world changers
As a global population, we continue to see a range of global challenges brought about by issues that we need to tackle together.
Our sustainability policies
We have a dedicated Energy and Sustainability Team, which coordinates environmental initiatives across the University with the help of environmental champions and student representatives.
Latest news
Nature Positive: We're Highly Commended in the International Green Gown Awards
We're delighted to announce that our project entitled 'Enhancing Biodiversity at Durham' has been Highly Commended for the Nature Positive category in the International Green Gown Awards 2024. Ian Armstrong, Biodiversity Manager in our Estates and Facilities Directorate, explains more about the project and how it supports our sustainability strategy.
Botanic Garden Team strike Gold
Durham is a Sustainability Institution of the Year finalist in Green Gown Awards 2024
We are an inclusive community
At Durham, our people are our most important asset. We believe that our success is tied to being able to attract, retain and develop outstanding staff and students from all backgrounds and identities.
Advancing sustainable development through our Centres and Institutes
Below some examples of our collaborative work through our Institutes and Centres that contributes to environmental and societal changes.
We offer a range of outreach, civic and regional engagements
Working with a range of partners and stakeholders, we are actively contributing to the economy, culture, society and reputation of Durham’s city and region. Our work with regional schools aims to raise aspirations and extend educational opportunities to all.
Our University Strategy
As part of the University Strategy Refresh, we have developed a revised statement of institutional purpose which will guide the choices that we make and the communications that we issue about the revised Strategy.