Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, the United Nations and its member states signed the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, a call to action to meet some of the most pressing challenges facing our world. The specific challenges and objectives are defined in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), which offer state and non-state actors a plan for promoting and achieving sustainability in areas such as the environment, access to food, gender equality, and healthy and safe communities. Canada was one of 193 UN member states that adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and is committed to implementing the SDGs both in Canada and internationally.
Sustainability at Western
Western integrates the three essential pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic into our research, teaching, outreach, and operations. Environmentally we promote research in climate and renewable energy, and embed SDG knowledge in our teaching. Socially we promote new programs and partnerships to provide community-engaged learning opportunities. Economically we support entrepreneurship, and offer programs with work experience placements.
Research
Our research initiatives encompass publications, research centres, and projects, all aimed at advancing knowledge and innovating solutions for the 17 SDGs. These efforts enrich our educational offerings, ensuring our courses reflect the latest scientific and socio-economic developments.
Teaching
By integrating cutting-edge research findings into our curricula, we equip students and staff with the knowledge and skills essential for sustainable development. This approach not only educates but also empowers our university community to actively participate in meaningful outreach activities.
Outreach
Our outreach programs extend the impact of our educational efforts into the broader community, promoting sustainable practices and gathering valuable feedback that informs our strategic operations.
Operations
Incorporating feedback from our community engagement, we enhance the sustainability of our campus management, services, and support systems for students, staff, and community members. This improvement in operations not only supports our environmental goals but also strengthens our social and economic contributions, creating a feedback loop that enhances our research and teaching.
explore Sustainable operations
Explore our detailed impact and initiatives across all SDGs
Western University is located on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak and Attawandaron peoples, on lands connected with the London Township and Sombra Treaties of 1796 and the Dish with One Spoon Covenant Wampum. This land continues to be home to diverse Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) whom we recognize as contemporary stewards of the land and vital contributors of our society.
Our impact
Western University ranks 21st globally in 2024, placing in the top 100 for 11 SDGs and top 50 for 5 SDGs, highlighting its leadership in sustainability through research, teaching, outreach, and operations.
Western ranks 30th globally in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025, placing 9th in the Americas and 4th in Canada, showcasing its strength in addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges.
