Building a Net-Zero Future: University of Manchester at the Forefront of Green Education

Strengthening Sustainability: Manchester Leads International Green Learning Effort

The University of Manchester has assumed a leading role in advancing education's contribution to the global transition towards a net-zero future. As a founding member of the International Green Learning and Skills Accelerator, an initiative launched by Times Higher Education under the United Nations' Green Jobs for Youth Pact, the University will represent the UK in efforts to bridge the growing green skills gap.

The Pact, developed through a collaboration among three key UN agencies, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the International Labour Organisation (ILO), and UNICEF, aims to support a just transition to a low-carbon, circular economy. By enhancing education and employment pathways, the initiative seeks to equip the workforce with essential green skills to drive global environmental progress. Furthermore, the Accelerator, along with an associated research project, is expected to facilitate collaboration among universities, industries, and policymakers worldwide. It aims to share best practices and develop a global framework for green skills and learning, thereby aligning educational systems with the evolving demands of a sustainable, net-zero economy.

University officials have emphasised that this invitation reflects Manchester’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and global collaboration. They stressed the need to co-create an inclusive scalable approach to green education that is applicable at both local and international levels to address climate challenges. Moreover, Phil Baty, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Times Higher Education, highlighted that Manchester's role as a founding partner in the Green Learning and Skills Accelerator reaffirms its dedication to sustainability. He noted the University’s consistent ranking in the top ten of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and underscored THE's mission of connecting institutions, data, and insights to foster a transition to a greener economy.

One of the programme’s key aims is to establish a clear and standardised framework for defining and measuring the 'green skills' necessary for a net-zero economy. Additionally, the project supports the Green Jobs for Youth Pact, which has garnered backing from various governments and was endorsed at the UN Summit of the Future. To achieve these objectives, the University of Manchester will collaborate with select international institutions to develop a framework that enables universities and employers to equip both young professionals and the existing workforce with essential green skills for a sustainable future.

Professor Jennifer O’Brien, lead for sustainability teaching and learning, stated that universities possess the capacity to drive the green skills agenda through their extensive research, teaching, and global partnerships. She emphasised the significance of inclusive, impactful education and noted that the initiative would incorporate proven strategies and insights from both Manchester and global collaborators to create transformative learning experiences.

Additionally, as a globally engaged civic institution, the University intends to involve its alumni and international partners in shaping this framework, aligning it with Manchester's ambitious goal of becoming a zero-carbon city by 2038. This programme will involve extensive cross-sector research and collaboration, ultimately leading to a scalable and inclusive Accreditation Framework, recognising institutions as Green Learning and Skills Providers.

Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility, asserted that the University's leadership in sustainability positions it well to influence green education. He underscored the vital role students will play in addressing climate and ecological challenges, expressing enthusiasm for Manchester’s contributions to global sustainability efforts. Notably, the University of Manchester has consistently ranked among the top ten institutions in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings since their inception. In alignment with its social responsibility goals, it has set ambitious environmental targets, such as full divestment from fossil fuels in 2022 and a 37% reduction in the carbon intensity of its investments.

Furthermore, all academic programmes are designed to support the UN Sustainable Development Goals, while initiatives such as the Sustainable Futures platform and the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research foster interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges. Most recently, the University signed a major agreement to source up to 65% of its electricity from a new renewable energy project, further reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Ultimately, through its leadership in global green education, the University of Manchester is set to play a crucial role in fostering sustainable learning and skills development, ensuring a just and effective transition to a net-zero future.

Editor’s Note

The University of Manchester’s selection as a founding member of the International Green Learning and Skills Accelerator marks a significant milestone in global sustainability education. As part of the United Nations’ Green Jobs for Youth Pact, the initiative underscores the critical role that academic institutions play in equipping future generations with the skills necessary for a net-zero economy. Through collaboration with policymakers, industries, and international universities, this programme not only advances the agenda for green education but also strengthens Manchester’s leadership in sustainability. Its longstanding commitment, evidenced by top-tier rankings in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, full divestment from fossil fuels, and extensive interdisciplinary research, demonstrates a model approach to integrating environmental responsibility within higher education. With the development of a global framework for green skills and learning, this initiative presents a strategic opportunity for academia to shape the future workforce.

As per Skoobuzz, by fostering an inclusive and scalable approach to sustainability education, the University is set to contribute meaningfully to the international discourse on climate action.