Queen’s University Belfast has become the first and only university in the UK to be awarded a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) rating, a significant milestone that highlights the University’s dedication to sustainability within higher education.
STARS is a globally recognised, transparent, and comprehensive framework that measures the sustainability performance of colleges and universities across their research, education, outreach, and operational activities.
With over 380 institutions currently holding a valid STARS rating worldwide, Queen’s now joins an elite group of global universities to achieve the GOLD standard.
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Queen’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said:
“This GOLD rating is a landmark achievement for Queen’s and reflects our deep institutional commitment to sustainability across all that we do at the University, from research and teaching to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), Estates, Campus Food and Drink, Public Engagement, and People and Culture.
“This recognition strengthens our global reputation, supports our civic mission, and shows that Queen’s is dedicated to delivering on our climate and sustainability commitments. It is a reflection of the collective efforts of colleagues across the University, and I extend my sincere thanks to everyone whose dedication and hard work made this possible.
“This is not just a celebration of what we’ve achieved so far but is also a commitment to continual progress. Queen’s remains dedicated to lead by example and inspire others in the academic community to embed sustainability at the heart of their missions. We’re proud to set the standard for the UK and contribute to global progress toward a more sustainable future.”
The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) developed the STARS framework. AASHE Executive Director Meghan Fay Zahniser, added:
"STARS was developed by the higher education sustainability community to recognize leadership in sustainability. We are delighted to have Queen's University Belfast as the first STARS rated institution in the UK and hope their sustainability achievement and impact inspires others."
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Queen’s was particularly commended for excelling in the STARS research subcategory, which recognises institutions that are carrying out research on sustainability topics. The awarding panel noted the vital role Queen’s is playing in deepening global understanding of sustainability challenges and creating innovative technologies, strategies, and solutions to tackle them.
The University also received high marks in the curriculum category, which recognises Queen’s formal education courses that address sustainability. This accomplishment highlights Queen’s commitment to equipping future leaders, researchers, and innovators with the knowledge and skills needed to guide society toward a sustainable future.
In recognising the innovative initiatives and bold strategies undertaken by the University that go beyond conventional practices, full marks were awarded in the Innovation and Leadership category.
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