Sustainability matters

Explore UNSW's contributions to the SDGs

As a leading global university, UNSW has impact across all 17 of the SDGs, which tackle the world’s most pressing challenges, such as ending poverty and hunger, climate change, the reduction of inequalities and more.

Long journey home: the return of the platypus

SDG 15: Life on Land

Scientists from UNSW Sydney have re-introduced platypuses to the Royal National Park after an absence of more than 50 years.

Advancing cervical cancer elimination in the Pacific

SDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing
UNSW received a $25.9 million donation from the Swire Group, the largest single philanthropic donation in its history. The funds will allow UNSW's Kirby Institute to work with regional partners to screen thousands of women in seven Pacific countries for cervical cancer.

UNSW wins top prize for electrification

SDG 7: Affordable & Clean Energy

UNSW won the the commercial electrification category at the 2025 Australian Renewable Heat Awards, for its Stage 1 Electrification Project, switching student accommodation, kitchens, childcare, sports and hospitality facilities from gas to fully electric systems.

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4th in Australia

in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025.

11th in the world

in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025.

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7th in the world

in the 2026 QS World University Sustainability Rankings.

Global Goals Week

19 - 28 September

Led by the United Nations, Global Goals Week is an annual week of action, awareness, and accountability for the SDGs. Find out how UNSW is driving real-world solutions to achieve a better future for all.

World Oceans Day

8 June

Find how out UNSW's Kelp Forest Challenge is saving the world's forgotten forests.

World Environment Day

5 June
At UNSW, we believe universities have a critical role in promoting sustainable practices and are uniquely positioned to lead and effect environmental change.

World Mental Health Day

10 October
Founded by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, World Mental Health Day is observed annually to raise awareness and promote positive change in mental health. At UNSW, we believe universities have a responsibility to not only support our students and staff, but drive innovations in health and wellbeing that help people around the world.

UNSW Sustainable Development Goals 2024 Report

This report outlines UNSW's performance against the SDGs in 2024.

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New hydrogen fuel cell design could unlock key clean energy technology

UNSW researchers have redesigned hydrogen fuel cells, clearing a major hurdle for clean energy in aviation, heavy transport, and beyond.

Apr 08, 2026

Science Engineering Division of Equity Diversity & Inclusion Science & Tech General SDG SDG7 SDG9

Australian children's data at risk through approved school apps

A UNSW-led audit of nearly 200 school-endorsed apps has found most begin harvesting children’s data within seconds – often contradicting their own privacy policies and exposing gaps in oversight by education systems, app developers and regulators.

Apr 08, 2026

ADFA Law & Justice Division of Equity Diversity & Inclusion SDG SDG3 SDG16 Business & Law Social Affairs General Healthy lives Resilient society