Digital resource showcases work on sustainability locally and globally

The University of Auckland has launched a refreshed set of web pages dedicated to showcasing its sustainability impact in relation to the United Nation’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This digital resource brings together the University’s extensive efforts to improve local and global sustainability and to meet its strategic goal of being a sustainable university by 2030.

Collecting this information in one place for the first time shows the scope of the University's impact.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater says: “The insights highlight the dedication of academics, staff and students to sustainability and explain the University’s success in the 2024 QS World University Sustainability Rankings.”

The University of Auckland ranked first in Oceania and fifth in the world.

“The rankings follow our actions, and our actions are motivated by evidence-based concerns about our environment and impacts on people."

Since 2020, the University of Auckland has also served as the official UN Academic Impact Hub for SDG 4, Quality Education, an appointment that reflects our long-standing commitment to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all.

“The SDG framework allows us to demonstrate the breadth of our contribution to a sustainable future,” says Professor Gillian Lewis, Director of the Sustainability Hub. “Our focus on societal and cultural challenges, including poverty, hunger, inequality, education and gender inequality are closely woven with environmental and ecological concerns," says Lewis.

“Where we can make a unique contribution is in applying Mātauranga Māori approaches to sustainability to enhance our research, teaching and partnerships.”

A key contributor to the University’s sustainability kaupapa is the recently established Ngā Ara Whetū - Centre for Climate, Biodiversity and Society, which integrates the principles and values of kaitiakitanga, (proactive guardianship) manaakitanga (generosity) and whanaungatanga (community).

“Our centre is bringing together diverse researchers and communities to work holistically towards climate solutions, sustaining biodiversity and fostering fairer and healthier societies," says Professor Jacqueline Beggs, Co-director of Ngā Ara Whetū.

"We are establishing partnerships and research frameworks to generate vital new research and education to contribute towards SDG goals."

The Environment and Sustainability Office, which is dedicated to embedding sustainability in the operations of Waipapa Taumata Rau, with a specific focus on monitoring Te Taumata Tukuwaro-kore Net Zero Carbon strategy, makes a significant contribution to its climate action efforts.

“On the SDG 13 Climate Action page, alongside research and commentary on methane tracking satellites, emissions-conscious diets and the impact of extreme weather events on young New Zealanders, you’ll find links to our Net Zero strategy and journey, our work on climate change sector scenarios, and our nominations for two Green Gown awards relating to climate action,” says Dr Charlotte Blythe, Carbon and Sustainability Communications and Engagement Manager.

The launch of the SDG webpages marks a significant step in increasing awareness of the University's sustainability commitments and reinforcing its role as a leader in fostering sustainable practices in higher education.

The University also produces an annual report on the actions it takes to progress towards each of the Sustainability Development Goals. Find a digital summary here, and the full 2024 and earlier SDG reports here.

As the University continues to implement its sustainability and net zero carbon strategies, which are key components of its strategic plan Taumata Teitei, the new webpages serve as a vital resource for students, faculty and the wider community to engage with and contribute to sustainable development efforts.