Global Recognition for Northumbria University's Environmental and Ethical Leadership

Top 10 Finish for Northumbria University in People & Planet University League

Northumbria University was ranked 10th in the UK for environmental and ethical performance in the 2024/25 People & Planet University League. Compiled by the UK’s largest student campaigning network, the league is the only independent ranking of universities on these criteria. Northumbria maintained its First-Class rating for the fourth year and is the highest-ranked university in the North East. The university climbed 14 places to 10th out of more than 150 universities in the 2025-25 rankings, scoring 100% in Environmental Policy, Strategy, Audits, and Management Systems.

Dr. Paul Steadman, Sustainability Manager at Northumbria University, attributed the improved ranking to initiatives such as the Voluntary Living Wage accreditation, carbon reduction projects on North East campuses, and the new Sustainable Travel Plan. He noted the growing competitiveness of the People & Planet University League and was pleased to see Northumbria not only maintain its First-Class status but also improve its ranking. He highlighted ongoing sustainability efforts, including the development of a Biodiversity Action Plan, and looked forward to the impact of continued work on the University's environmental footprint in 2025.

In addition, it was reported that Northumbria University was ranked among the top 50 institutions globally for sustainability in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024. These rankings are the only global performance tables that assess universities based on their alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In future, Northumbria University will continue to lead the way in sustainability, setting an exemplary standard for environmental and ethical performance in higher education.

Editor's Note:

Northumbria University's success in the 2024/25 People & Planet University League and the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings demonstrates the university’s tireless commitment to achieving sustainability. This recognition highlights the university's efforts in environmental and ethical performance, setting a benchmark for other institutions to follow. Initiatives such as carbon reduction projects and the Sustainable Travel Plan are not just accolades but are making a tangible difference in reducing the university's environmental footprint. 

Skoobuzz sees this recognition as a testament to Northumbria’s leadership in driving positive change within the higher education sector and beyond.