Building a Sustainable Tomorrow
The University of Guelph remains committed to keeping sustainability central to its teaching, research, campus and community as it works toward achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2040. This commitment is reflected in our dedication to transforming our campuses into living labs and our role as global leaders in sustainability and innovation. Our focus includes developing and promoting advanced solutions for sustainable practices and equipping future leaders to tackle global challenges.
Goals
- Transform our campuses into living labs as we work towards net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
- Be a global leader in sustainable agri-food systems, developing and promoting solutions and preparing the next generation of thought leaders.
- Align our resource allocation, planning and financial investments with the United Nation’s SDGs by 2030.
Key Measures
2023-24 / 2024-25
- THE Impact Ranking: 79th / 101st-200th
- QS Sustainability Ranking: 139th / 160th
Achievements
Morwick Groundwater Research Centre Opens
The new Morwick Groundwater Research Centre brings hydrology to life. Set directly above a bedrock aquifer, the facility equips students with state-of-the-art lab spaces, field tools, and public educational displays, deepening our understanding of water systems and elevating U of G’s stature in global water stewardship.
Fossil-Fuel Divestment Completed
U of G fulfilled its five-year commitment by fully divesting from fossil fuels, reducing carbon intensity in its endowment by 74% since 2018. This not only aligns university funds with a low-carbon future but also demonstrates financial stewardship rooted in sustainability principles
Sustainable Food Systems for Canada (SF4C) Platform Launches
The University received a Lab to Market grant for nearly $16.3 million over five years to support the launch of SF4C. Backed by over 40 national partners, SF4C bridges lab research with real-world applications, equipping future leaders with skills, mentorship, and networks to drive sustainable transformation in food production.
Master of Sustainable Agriculture Program
To further its leadership in agri-food education, U of G announced the Master of Sustainable Agriculture program, with enrolment beginning in summer 2025. The new degree blends interdisciplinary training, field experience, and policy insight, preparing students to develop future-ready food systems that balance productivity with sustainability and resilience.