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Reflecting our ambition to be known as a global leader in environmental sustainability, we are leading the way in cutting our carbon footprint, continually setting ambitious carbon-reduction targets, investing in sustainable technologies, and introducing new initiatives to lower our environmental impact.

More than a third of all energy used on campus is low-carbon, with 100% of all electricity coming from renewable sources. We have made significant progress on campus to improve solar generation, make heating buildings more efficient, and add energy-efficient equipment in labs and catering outlets.

Aerial view of the lake on Whiteknights campus.

Living sustainably

Green investments

Energy efficiency

We aim to become a Net Zero Carbon university by 2030 and have already made the most significant reduction of any research-intensive university (based on analysis of HESA data).

This work also includes prioritising renewable energy sources, reducing business travel emissions, increasing the energy efficiency of our buildings, and taking steps to align our activities with the Standardised Carbon Emissions Framework.

Through innovative tools and initiatives, we have inspired people across the University community to reduce their environmental footprint and live and work in greener ways.

Sustainable catering

A hearty bowl of lentil curry.


Education for Sustainable Development

All University of Reading students have the opportunity to develop an informed understanding of the environmental and wider sustainability challenges the world faces.

In addition to key modules embedded in programmes on climate change and sustainability, we offer an optional module, Science of Climate Change, aimed at all students, not just those studying the sciences. Students can learn directly from our worldwide experts about why the climate is changing, how to avoid the most devastating consequences, and how to adapt as the planet warms.

Preparing for the future

That's just the start: we're working to embed curricular opportunities for all students, regardless of subject, to engage with transformative change, enabling lifelong critical thinking and reflection on the environmental, social, and economic challenges they will face, both within their programme and beyond.

A Reading graduate will have an appreciation of multiple perspectives and diversity to make well-informed, ethical decisions and to integrate social and civic responsibility, including the ability to collaborate effectively and adapt to different work or study contexts. We will support all our students in exploring global citizenship within the context of their discipline and their future professional and personal lives.

We are driven to ensure that our students are empowered to positively contribute to finding sustainable solutions in their lives, professions and communities.

Find out more about Education for Sustainable Development

We're green in all sorts of ways
People & Planet University League
1st in the People & Planet University League 2023/24
The Times and Sunday Times, Good University Guide 2025, Sustainable University of the Year
The Times and Sunday Times, Good University Guide 2025, Sustainable University of the Year
The Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education 2021
Queen's Anniversary Prize for climate research and action
London Higher
Winner of Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability Leadership, London Higher Award 2024
Times Higher Education Awards 2023
Winner of Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership