THE Impact Rankings
The University of Stirling is ranked among the top 200 institutions in the world for its contribution to meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A record 2,389 universities submitted evidence to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2025 – which assesses performance against the SDGs.
The SDGs were adopted in 2015 by all United Nations Member States as an urgent call to action to improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.
THE Impact Rankings use the SDGs to assess universities efforts to address global challenges. In a comprehensive review, universities receive a score and a rank for their activities relating to each of the SDGs, reflecting research, learning and teaching, stewardship, and civic engagement.
How we achieved our top 100 SDGs
- SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) – 33rd in the world
The work of the world-renowned Institute of Aquaculture to help build a sustainable seafood sector was a key contributor to the high ranking for SDG 2. - SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) – 65th (equal) in the world
Collaborative research into the experiences of looked after children was among the projects and programmes that contributed to Stirling’s rank in the top 100 for SDG 10. - SDG 14 (Life Below Water) – 42nd in the world
The University’s work to improve global water quality through Earth observation was among the initiatives to contribute to a top 50 place in the rankings for meeting SDG 14. - SDG 15 (Life On Land) – 27th (equal) in the world
Research into ecosystems and biodiversity which demonstrates the positive impact of nature-based solutions is among the areas for which the University was awarded a high ranking for SDG 15.
Further SDG achievements
We also received an improved position for SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) moving into the 101-200th position.
Several other SDGs ranked in the 101-200th rank position:
- SDG 1 (No Poverty)
- SDG 5 (Gender Equality)
- SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth)
- SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities & Communities)
- SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production)
- SDG 13 (Climate Action)
- SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions)
What we are doing to be more sustainable
Find out about our commitments to protecting our environment, social sustainability, reducing our carbon emissions and developing solutions for climate justice.
You can also find more about our contribution to meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
