VU Among the 315 Most Environmentally Sustainable Universities in the World
For the third consecutive year, the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability has assessed the sustainability performance of universities worldwide. This year, Vilnius University (VU) has risen significantly among 1,744 higher education institutions, ranking 315th (up from 474th last year). VU also holds the first position among universities in Lithuania and ranks 147th out of 556 European universities.
Vilnius University Achieves 83rd Place Globally for Environmental Sustainability
The QS Sustainability Rankings evaluate universities based on three categories: Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance.
VU’s Environmental Impact indicator was highly rated, securing the 268th spot globally. Within this category, the institution’s Environmental Sustainability Index climbed more than 150 places, from 254th to 83rd. The Environmental Impact category evaluates institutions based on environmental sustainability, environmental education, and environmental research.
This indicator reflects whether the institution develops strategies, conducts research, and implements educational activities with an emphasis on environmental sustainability. It uses data from QS Rankings, universities themselves, Elsevier, and global organisations such as UNESCO and the World Bank.
Social Impact and Governance Categories
In the Social Impact category, VU ranked particularly well in the subcategories of Impact of Education and Equality, achieving 380th and 386th places respectively. Social Impact is assessed across five aspects: employability and opportunities, equality, health and wellbeing, impact of education, and knowledge exchange.
For Governance, VU was ranked 392nd. This category evaluates whether institutions uphold principles of open decision-making, foster an ethical organisational culture, involve student representatives in governance structures, and maintain transparent financial reporting.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
To qualify for the Sustainability Rankings, higher education institutions must demonstrate a commitment to combating climate change, align research with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and meet QS Rankings criteria.
The QS Sustainability Rankings not only highlight institutions committed to environmental sustainability but also require evidence of these efforts, such as the impact of alumni in addressing climate challenges and the relevance of research conducted within the framework of the 17 UN SDGs.
Ultimately, the rankings evaluate the social, environmental, and governance impact of universities as centres of education and research, as well as their broader societal impact as key employers addressing sustainability challenges.