The University of Galway has been named the number one university in Ireland for sustainable development for a third consecutive year following the publication of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024.
The ranking focuses on a university's ability to address the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Galway was ranked 47th globally, highlighting its significant contributions to advancing 11 of the 17 UN SDGs. Notably, the University holds an impressive world ranking of 10 for Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) and is listed in the top 100 for six other SDGs.
This consistent recognition underscores the University of Galway’s dedication to sustainability and its impact on promoting global sustainable development. Learn more about how Galway reached this point below, and if you would like to apply to study in Ireland, arrange a free consultation with SI-Ireland today.
The University of Galway is the Most Impactful University in Ireland
1. Global Reputation in Research
Researchers at the University of Galway have developed a global reputation in various fields, including:
- Medtech: Leading innovations in medical technology.
- Marine and Environmental Research: Pioneering studies and solutions to preserve marine and environmental ecosystems.
- Sustainable Energy Solutions: Creating advanced sustainable energy systems.
- Data Analytics: Advancing data analysis to support various industries.
- Culture and Creativity: Enhancing cultural and creative sectors, playing a crucial role in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals.
2. Embedding Sustainability in Education
The University’s lecturers are integrating sustainability into the curriculum. Additionally, the University has developed a new tracking tool to determine the SDG content of its courses, ensuring that sustainability is a core component of student learning.
3. Sustainable Campus and Infrastructure
The University of Galway's campus and buildings serve as testbeds for sustainable actions:
- Energy Reduction: Since 2006, the University has decreased its energy usage by 50%, exceeding set targets.
- Solar PV Panels: Solar panels have been installed across campus buildings.
- Geothermal Heat Pump Project: A demonstrator geothermal heat pump project heats the swimming pool in the Sports Centre.
- Electric Buses: The Park and Ride system is powered by electric buses.
- Water Fountains: A network of internal and external drinking water fountains has been installed campus-wide.
4. Leading in Green Lab Certification
The University of Galway is home to the first lab in Europe to be awarded Green Lab certification. All the labs in the Alice Perry Engineering Building are now certified as green, reflecting the University’s commitment to environmentally friendly research practices.
5. Biodiverse and Eco-Friendly Campus
The University of Galway’s campus is one of the most biodiverse in Ireland, holding the An Taisce Green Campus Flag. The University has implemented numerous initiatives to support biodiversity, including:
- Wildflower Enhancement Schemes: Promoting the growth of wildflowers across campus.
- Bird and Bat Boxes: Installing boxes to support bird and bat populations.
- Insect Hotels and Beehives: Creating habitats for insects and bees.
- Pollinator-Friendly Pesticide Code: Adopting a pesticide code that supports pollinators.
- Log Tree Hive: Introducing a log tree hive to enhance the campus’s ecological diversity.
Study at the University of Galway
Through these initiatives, the University of Galway continues to lead by example, making substantial strides toward a more sustainable future. If you want to study at the most impactful university in Ireland, arrange a free consultation today.
