The University of Exeter has retained its position as number one in the world for its pivotal research, actions and commitment towards clean water and better sanitation in the latest influential rankings.
Exeter has been ranked first in the world for the second year running in the Clean Water and Sanitation category of The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024, released today (Wednesday, June 12th 2024).
The University also ranked 10th overall, and 2nd in the UK, in the influential rankings, in recognition of its steadfast commitment to sustainability, improving health and tackling inequality.
The rankings, established in 2019, measure universities’ overall impact through their work towards meeting the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). The overall ranking is produced based on individual data for SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals, plus their best three results on the remaining SDGs.
Exeter achieved an overall score of 96 out of 100 to secure its position in the global top 10.
The University secured first place for SDG6: Clean Water and sanitation, which looks at research into water, water usage and commitment to ensuring good water management in the wider communities.
Exeter was also ranked 6th in the world for SDG14: Life Below Water, for its innovative research, education on and support for aquatic ecosystems, and 7th in the world for SDG12 Consumption and Production , which measures the efficient use of resources and minimising waste, and ensuring consumption is minimised, especially where resources are not renewable.
Exeter also secured top 40 positions in four further SDGs: SDG13: Climate Action (12th); SDG2 Zero Hunger (19th) , SDG15 Life on Land (25th); and SDG10 Reduced Inequalities (34th).
Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter said: “We are thrilled to have secured a global top 10 position in the THE Impact Rankings 2024. Exeter has made significant progress in these prestigious rankings in recent years and this is a powerful reflection of our mission, and of our commitment and drive to create a greener, healthier and fairer future for us all.
It is a fantastic achievement to once again be recognised as being the top university in the world for our pioneering work on clean water and sanitation, the benefits of which can be seen at home and abroad. We are also extremely proud of our continued rise in recognition for our work on climate and marine action, and research into sustainability through responsible production and consumption.
These results reflect Exeter’s world-leading research and education, coupled with our strong interdisciplinary and partnership approach, which is helping create innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. I would like to thank all colleagues and students involved in these fantastic achievements.”
Professor Alexandra Gerbasi, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy says: “I’m absolutely delighted that the University of Exeter is now ranked in the top ten Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024. This recognition really matters for our work to deliver effective solutions on the Sustainable Development Goals. Exeter’s leadership on sustainability is exceptional and the reputation of our new Environment, Science and Economy Faculty is growing fast amongst businesses and policy makers who share our vision of using the power of education and research to create a better world for all.”
