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SFU is a global leader in sustainability

We are committed to bold actions for a better future. SFU’s dedication to sustainable research, teaching and learning, campus operations, and community and global engagement play a key role in advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). 

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AN innovative, community-engaged research university with global impact

Universities have a crucial role to play in achieving the UN SDGs through leadership, knowledge generation, education, campus operations and public engagement. In Times Higher Education's 2022 Impact Rankings, SFU is ranked once more among the world’s top 10 universities for our commitment to sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11). We are also within the top 10 in Canada for climate action (SDG 13) and peace, justice and strong institutions (SDG 16).

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going the distance for the global Race to Zero campaign

SFU has joined the UN-led Race To Zero global campaign to rally for a healthy, resilient, zero carbon recovery that prevents future threats, creates decent jobs and unlocks inclusive, sustainable growth.  

Joining Race To Zero continues SFU's commitment to be a leader for sustainability initiatives and helps set targets for the decade following SFU's Strategic Sustainability and Climate Action Plan’s end date (2025). There will be further development and additions to our plan and the development of a new 2035 net zero plan. 

Read the full story on SFU News

What are the UN SDGs?

17 goals to transform our world. The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the world’s call-to-action to end poverty, protect the planet and leave no one behind.  The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 SDGs, which are an urgent call for action by all countries— developed and developing—in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth—all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.

About SFU'S SDGs activities

SFU's Strategic Sustainability and climate action Plan

SFU's 2022-2025 Strategic Sustainability and Climate Action Plan establishes SFU's sustainability goals, defines SFU's climate action targets and outlines how SFU will take action to achieve them. Given a global climate crisis, the plan mobilizes the entire institution to embed climate action throughout its operations, research, academics and community engagement. It includes 6 overarching goals and 18 supporting actions to guide the institution until 2025. SFU's SDGs activities are guided by the plan.

Learn more about SFU's Strategic Sustainability and Climate Action Plan