University rises again in global QS Sustainability rankings
Heriot-Watt University’s commitment to sustainability has driven its impressive performance again in the latest QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2026.
The influential ranking assesses more than 2,000 institutions worldwide, evaluating them across the three key areas of environmental impact, social impact, and governance.
We are proud that our work, spanning climate action, industrial decarbonisation, renewable energy, circular economy, and social sustainability, is being recognised on an international stage.
Heriot-Watt has set an ambitious target to embed sustainability at the heart of its strategy, teaching, research and campus operations underscoring its commitment to mobilising collective efforts towards a net-zero future. Supporting this effort is the University’s Climate Action Framework which was co-created with students, staff, alumni, and external community groups to empower those connected to Heriot-Watt to take meaningful steps towards a sustainable future.
This activity has contributed to a significant rise of 53 places, positioning the University 158th out of more than 2,000 institutions globally in the latest league table. This builds further upon the significant rise of 277 places last year. Within the UK, Heriot-Watt’s standing has also improved, climbing from 42nd to 38th.
Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer, Deputy Principal for Global Sustainability, says: “This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to creating a more sustainable future through education, research, innovation, and collaboration across our global community. We are proud that our work, spanning climate action, industrial decarbonisation, renewable energy, circular economy, and social sustainability, is being recognised on an international stage.
“This progress reinforces our mission to lead by example and empower our students, staff, and partners to drive positive global change.”
The QS World University Rankings: Sustainability provide a global benchmark for how universities are addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. The rankings highlight institutions’ contributions to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), assessing their research, educational impact, and operations as responsible global citizens.
Dr Lindsay Wilson, Global Head of Sustainability at Heriot-Watt University, spoke of the University’s commitment to sustainability.
“Our strong showing in these latest rankings is testament to the collective dedication of our global community in turning ambition into action,” she says.
“Sustainability is not just a goal at Heriot-Watt, it’s central to what we do, from our research and education to how we operate our campuses worldwide.
“Rising in the QS Sustainability Rankings demonstrates the real progress we’re making toward our net-zero targets and our commitment to creating lasting positive impact for people and the planet."
To learn more about the University’s sustainability strategy, explore Heriot-Watt’s Climate Action Framework, which outlines clear targets for carbon reduction and community-led initiatives across its global campuses.