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 / 2025-26
- THE Impact Ranking: 79th / 101st-200th / N/A
- QS Sustainability Ranking: 139th / 160th / 162nd
Achievements
Global Recognition for Environmental Research Grows
U of G ranked 80th globally for environmental research, climbing more than 300 positions since 2024. More than 94 per cent of University departments are engaged in sustainability research.
Master of Sustainable Agriculture Moves into Delivery
U of G welcomed the first students to its Master of Sustainable Agriculture program. The interdisciplinary program combines agriculture, data, technology and policy to prepare graduates to contribute to productive and sustainable food systems.
Research Advances Agri-Food Resilience
More than 30 U of G projects received $6.92 million through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance to address challenges across food production, environmental stewardship and agricultural resilience.
Sustainability Embedded in Campus Development
Updated University design and construction standards strengthened sustainability requirements for major renovations and new construction, including expectations related to zero-carbon design, embodied carbon and net-zero readiness.