Our commitment to sustainability

How the University of Southampton is doing its part

How the University of Southampton is playing its part

The University of Southampton is committed to making sustainability part of everything we do. Our Sustainability Strategy 2026-2030 sets out an ambitious vision to ensure sustainability is embedded across the University, from our teaching and research to our day-to-day operations and decision-making. The strategy was developed following consultation with students, staff and other stakeholders, recognising the important role universities play in addressing global environmental challenges. 

Our vision is that by 2030, sustainability will be part of everything the University of Southampton does: our individual behaviours, how we work together, and how we make decisions for the future. Sustainability will be fully embedded across teaching, research, the student experience and University culture. 

To make this vision a reality, we've set out six key goals:

1. Achieve net zero emissions for Scope 1 and Scope 2 by 2035. Goal Champion: Kevin Argent, Executive Director, Estates & Facilities. 

2. Establish pathways to reduce Scope 3 emissions, with a target of achieving net zero Scope 3 emissions by 2045. Goal Champion: Wendy Appleby, Vice-President (Operations). 

3. Reduce emissions associated with business travel and embed more sustainable travel practices across the University. Goal Champion: Jane Falkingham, Vice-President (Engagement & International). 

4. Ensure sustainability is embedded throughout University education programmes and the wider student experience. Goal Champion: Deborah Gill, Vice-President (Education).

5. Strengthen sustainability as a key area of research, innovation and societal impact. Goal Champion: Mark Spearing, Vice-President (Research & Enterprise).

6. Continue to support sustainable and ethical investment and decision-making across the University. Goal Champion: Julie Fielder, Executive Director, Finance & Planning. 

Making a Difference

The University is working to reduce its environmental impact through a range of initiatives, including improving energy efficiency, investing in low-carbon technologies, supporting biodiversity, promoting sustainable travel, reducing waste and encouraging responsible procurement. These actions contribute to our wider ambition of creating a more sustainable future for our students, staff and communities.

To learn more about the University's sustainability commitments and progress, you can read the full Sustainability Strategy:

Read the Sustainability Strategy

If you want to know more about exactly how we will achieve these goals, find out more about our full strategy here:

Halls Life Quality Check ✔ Updated August 2026 — Reviewed by TMW