Cork's UCC named a global leader in sustainability

University College Cork (UCC) has been ranked second in the world for the advancement of sustainability in the latest global environmental UI GreenMetric World University Rankings.

It achieved the second spot after an assessment of 1,745 universities from 105 different countries around the world.

The UI GreenMetric World University Ranking examines universities around the world and their work towards reducing their carbon footprint, embedding sustainability in student learning and helping combat climate change.

Wageningen University and Research from the Netherlands has been named the world’s most sustainable university in 2025, with Nottingham Trent University in England coming behind UCC in third place.

UCC has consistently been Ireland’s leading university for sustainability under this annual assessment since inception, ranking inside the top 10 in the world for the past nine years in succession.

President of UCC John O’Halloran said the rankings illustrate the action being undertaken by all in the university in the area of sustainability.

“It is incumbent on universities to lead and inspire the change we want to see in the world.

“The way we operate has changed significantly over the years, and the passion of our students, staff, and communities has driven that change.”

Professor Brian Ó Gallachóir, associate vice-president of sustainability at UCC, added: “We are very proud to be ranked as the second most sustainable university in the world, particularly at a time when global leadership in sustainability is needed more than ever.

“The research in our sustainability institute informs how we practise sustainability within UCC, but also advances sustainability externally through the impact our research achieves in informing policy, supporting business and empowering communities.”

“This is a proud moment for UCC, and I would like to commend the work of our staff, students and service providers, who live this ambition in their day-to-day activities,” said Maria Kirrane, head of sustainability and climate action.

UCC, which offers dedicated sustainability transition training and education through UCC Sustainability Academy, is aiming to become a zero waste campus by 2030 and a carbon neutral campus by 2040.