It’s no secret that universities have pledged to go greener amid increased concerns over climate change in recent years. Some universities still have a way to go to fulfil their promise, but thankfully, some uni’s are picking up the slack and pulling their (green) thumbs out to do their bit for the planet. Want to see if your uni made the top five? Then check out our list of the most environmentally-friendly universities in the UK below, as assessed by People and Planet 2025/26.

10. Cardiff Metropolitan University

Named by Times Higher Education as University of the Year 2021, Cardiff University is really cleaning up when it comes to sustainability. Their comprehensive environmental policies have scored this uni the number 10 spot on our list of the most environmentally-friendly universities in the UK. Clearly, Cardiff Met is clearly taking the climate crisis seriously (although they have slipped a few places from last year where they ranked in top spot). The uni has established a solid sustainability policy partnering with students, governments and businesses to create lasting environmental benefits. Keep it up, Cardiff Met!

9. University of Worcester

Another climber, University of Worcester is five places higher in the rankings for the most sustainable universities in the UK. They did pretty well in all the same areas at Bournemouth University, but had higher scores for sustainable food. They claim their motto is ‘Change Today, Protect Tomorrow’, hoping to promote environmentally-friendly behaviours in the wider community. They’ve signed up to the SDG Accord, which basically helps unis and other learning institutions stay accountable to UN sustainability goals.

8. De Montfort University

De Montfort University is the only higher education institution in Britain that acts as a global hub for a SDG (SDG 16 to promote peace, justice and strong institutions). It simply had to make the list of first class sustainable and environmentally-friendly universities as a result. De Montfort University is in 8th place, which is up 12 from the previous year. Carbon management and sustainability staff were the two biggest factors that lead to this rise.

7. University of Greenwich 

Greenwich has set ambitious targets, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, and has already made strong progress on cutting emissions, expanding reuse and recycling schemes, and embedding sustainability into its curriculum so students learn how to solve global environmental challenges.

Being in the top ten nationally shows that Greenwich doesn’t just talk about sustainability — it’s actively leading on it, with both staff and students playing a role in creating a greener campus and community.

6. Bournemouth University

Having risen nine places from last year, Bournemouth Uni is officially in the top 10 most environmentally-friendly and sustainable universities at number 6. Their environmental policy, energy sources and auditing have been recognised in particular, and other areas such as water reduction, engagement and education have all contributed to their climb in rankings.

5. University of Salford

One of two Manchester universities on the list (keep scrolling for more), Salford uni is now among the fifth unis doing the most for the environment. Where it scores highly is education, auditing and engagement. 

4. University of Reading

Fourth on our list of most environmentally-friendly universities is none other than the University of Reading. It has made significant strides in promoting sustainability through its campus operations, academic programs, and community engagement initiatives. 

The university has implemented a range of sustainability measures, including investments in renewable energy, waste management systems, and sustainable transportation options, such as bike sharing programs and electric vehicle charging stations. The university offers a wide range of courses and programs related to sustainability, including Climate Change and Environmental Science, and has established research centres that focus on sustainable food systems, energy and climate change, and environmental technologies. It’s no wonder they’re up there with the best!

3. University of West London

Similar to the top two unis, the University of West London scored 100% when it comes to auditing and EMS and sustainability staff, showing strong efforts towards sustainability. It also scored 90% for carbon reduction, making it even higher than the uni coming in second place! 

2. Bath Spa University

In second place of the most environmentally-friendly universities is Bath Spa uni. It scored 75% for its carbon reduction, 95% for education and 100% for auditing and EMS. It’s not a bad set of stats.

1. Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University has been in the top three for the last ten years, They have now secure the first place as the most environmentally-friendly and sustainable university in the UK (again)! It’s a pretty impressive run. The most admirable part of Man Met’s sustainability policy? Their commitment to keep improving. They have stated on their website ‘there is [still] much more to do: we aim to build on our position, becoming a global leader that charts a path for others to follow.’ If all unis were as against complacency as Man Met is, the world would certainly be a much greener place!

If you’re curious where your uni ranked, you can check out People and Planet University League here!