The University’s work to support each of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been outlined in a new report compiled by the Sustainability Team. 

The Annual Sustainable Development Goals Report provides a snapshot of the University’s collective efforts to address the critical global challenges facing humanity. 

It highlights our distinctive contributions to the most pressing global challenges facing humanity and the natural world, as identified by the United Nations, including quality education, climate action, reduced inequalities, and sustainable cities and communities. 

‘Supporting the SDGs in a multitude of ways’ 

“From partnering with the Kelp Recovery Project in Sussex Bay, to providing affordable housing for low-income students, the past year has seen Sussex demonstrating our determination to support the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals in a multitude of ways, across every area of our academic endeavour and institutional life,” writes Vice-Chancellor Professor Sasha Roseneil in the report’s foreword.  

“Through a significant programme of transformation on our campus, we are starting to reverse our contribution to climate change and ecological breakdown, and helping with the recovery of local ecosystems and economies.  

“We are also developing innovative open access resources for sustainability education to ensure that our students - and students around the world - are supported to develop the skills, knowledge, and capabilities needed to thrive in an uncertain future. 

“And through our wide-ranging research and innovation activities, and in partnership with governments, third sector organisations, businesses, and universities locally and globally, we are contributing to the pursuit of a more just and equitable world.” 

‘Passionate dedication to sustainable development’ 

The Annual Sustainable Development Goals Report assesses our contributions to each SDG on local, regional, national, and international scales. It collates details of our broad range of impactful activities from 2022-23 and beyond through our research, education, outreach, and campus operations, celebrating the collective ambition and dedication of Sussex as it strives to be one of the most sustainable universities in the world. 

This publication helps to set the scene for the University’s new strategy which will be launched early next year. Setting out our ambitions for the next ten years, Sussex 2035 commits the University to a focus on three strategic themes, environmental sustainability, human flourishing, and digital and data futures, under the title ‘Creating Progressive Futures – flourishing, sustainability and progress for the whole world’. 

“Next year’s report will tell you more about our Sussex 2035 goals and early achievements, but for now, I invite you to read on, and to learn about our recent contributions to the UN SDGs, as the Sussex community continues to pursue our passionate dedication to sustainable development,” adds Sasha. 

You can read the full report on our website, and you can learn more about the Sustainable Development Goals and how they relate to our work in this video.

How you can play your part 

You can earn points for the Spirit of Sussex Award, join student- and staff-led biodiversity projects on campus, find out how your degree links to sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and get involved in student-led sustainability societies.  

We are soon going to be asking staff and students to share their views on a number of sustainability-related topics as part of an upcoming consultation. Please subscribe to the Sustainable Sussex newsletter to get involved. 

You can also join the Sustainability at Sussex community on Viva Engage to share ideas and feedback, and follow @sustainablesussexuni on Instagram for the latest news.