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Energy efficiency

We aim to become a Net Zero Carbon university by 2030 and have already made the most significant reduction of any research-intensive university (based on analysis of HESA data).

This work also includes prioritising renewable energy sources, reducing business travel emissions, increasing the energy efficiency of our buildings, and taking steps to align our activities with the .

Sustainable catering

  • We were the first European university to .
  • We’ve been awarded three-star Fairtrade University and College status, delivered by SOS (Students Organising for Sustainability) and the Fairtrade Foundation. This accreditation demonstrates the University's commitment to sustainable practices and reducing the impact of our consumption as well as our ethical support for fairtrade communities and livelihoods.
A hearty bowl of lentil curry.

Education for Sustainable Development

All Âé¶¹´«Ã½ students have the opportunity to the world faces.

In addition to key modules embedded in programmes on climate change and sustainability, we offer an optional module, Science of Climate Change, aimed at all students, not just those studying the sciences. Students can learn directly from our worldwide experts about why the climate is changing, how to avoid the most devastating consequences, and how to adapt as the planet warms.

Preparing for the future

That's just the start: we're working to embed curricular opportunities for all students, regardless of subject, to engage with transformative change, enabling lifelong critical thinking and reflection on the environmental, social, and economic challenges they will face, both within their programme and beyond.

A Reading graduate will have an appreciation of multiple perspectives and diversity to make well-informed, ethical decisions and to integrate social and civic responsibility, including the ability to collaborate effectively and adapt to different work or study contexts. We will support all our students in exploring global citizenship within the context of their discipline and their future professional and personal lives.

We are driven to ensure that our students are empowered to positively contribute to finding sustainable solutions in their lives, professions and communities.

We're green in all sorts of ways
People & Planet University League
4th in the People & Planet University League 2024/25
London Higher
Winner of Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability Leadership, London Higher Award 2024
Times Higher Education Awards 2023
Winner of Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership