Exeter University is the most sustainable Russell Group uni, according to new rankings

It rose up 12 places, and also maintained its ‘first class university’ ranking


The University of Exeter is the most sustainable Russell Group uni, according to new rankings.

In the 2024–2025 People & Planet University League, Exeter rose 12 spots to ninth place, maintaining its position as one of the top 25 “first-class universities.”

It was also one of just four universities from the group to achieve first-class status.

This year, People & Planet, the UK’s largest student campaigning network, assessed nearly 150 universities based on 14 distinct criteria.

Exeter achieved a perfect 100 per cent score for its Auditing and Environmental Management System, along with scores of 90 per cent or higher in Environmental Policy, Sustainable Food, and Education.

The university also stood out for its dedicated expert sustainability staff, strong commitment from senior leadership, and broader engagement with both students and staff.

Exeter is committed to creating a sustainable future. Exeter Strategy 2030 prioritises the climate emergency and ecological crisis at the heart of the university’s mission, embedding these values into both education and campus management.

With more than 1,400 researchers focused on environmental and climate studies, the university is working alongside partners across the South West, the UK, and globally to accelerate action in this critical decade for our planet.

Exeter also reports its sustainability performance annually, detailing the steps it takes to reduce its carbon footprint, implement and share best practices across its estate and operations, and promote biodiversity and ethical practices.

In 2024, Exeter achieved 10th place in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024 and secured 30th position globally in the QS Sustainability Ranking 2024.