The 17 Goals at Western

In 2024, Western University ranked 7th globally and 2nd in North America for SDG 1 by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.

From 2018-2023, Western University published 252 articles on food security, directly tackling global food challenges.

In 2024, our contributions included 3,017 graduates trained in health professions, directly supporting advancements in public health.

In 2024, we offered 713 undergraduate courses linked to SDG 4 and 93% of our students continued to their second year.

From 2018 to 2023, we published 578 articles advancing gender equality discussions and policies.

Western University supports sustainable water management with over 200 free water bottle filling stations on campus and ceased the sale of plastic bottled water as of January 2024.

Western University's commitment to sustainable energy is highlighted by 1,099 publications on affordable and clean energy from 2018 to 2023, and the campus-wide Deep Energy Retrofit Program, which enhances energy efficiency and reduces carbon emissions in older buildings.

In 2024, Western University was ranked 1st in North America for SDG 8 by Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, and we provide work placements for 45% of our students.

Through 664 undergraduate courses focused on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, we are preparing students for future challenges. By 2025, we are committed to directing 10% of our fund towards sustainable investing strategies, enhancing our dedication to sustainable development.

Western offers 473 undergraduate courses related to SDG 10, along with 12 workshops and modules focused on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.

Initiatives on the Western campus include providing public access to libraries, green spaces, and the McIntosh Gallery, as well as implementing our Open Space Strategy.

Western has been recognized as a Fair Trade Campus for eight consecutive years.

Western is committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 45% by 2030 from 2005 levels, with the goal of achieving net-zero emissions for all campus operations by 2050.

99% of our seafood supply is certified as sustainable or responsibly sourced.

Western offers 111 undergraduate courses related to SDG 15 and enhances sustainable land management through its Campus as a Living Lab program.

In 2024, Western University ranked 2nd globally and 1st in North America for SDG 16 by Times Higher Educatoin Impact Rankings.

Western participates in international collaborations to monitor SDG progress and publishes annual reports detailing our advancements across all 17 goals.

In 2015, the United Nations and its 193 member states, including Canada, adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This agenda outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at addressing critical global challenges such as environmental sustainability, food security, gender equality, and community health.