The University of Melbourne, Australia

The University of Melbourne's Holistic Approach to Sustainability

The University of Melbourne (UoM) has always been committed to sustainability, implementing environmental improvements since the 1990’s. It made its first public, high-profile commitment with a sustainability framework in 2016, including its Sustainability Charter and first Sustainability Plan 2017-2020. These commitments are holistic across the institution, including leadership & governance, operations, learning & teaching, research, partnerships & engagement.

UoM has launched its second Sustainability Plan 2030, demonstrating cross-disciplinary collaboration, governed by its senior Sustainability Advisory Group. Targets align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and UoM annually reports progress. In the 2024 QS world university rankings, UoM has jumped up to 14th (from 33rd last year), noting that sustainability has been included as a key criteria in these global rankings. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, in recent years, UoM achieved zero-net emissions from electricity for the second year, invested $12 million in energy-efficiency upgrades, and pioneered innovative approaches such as the Choose to Reuse program. Melbourne Climate Futures, launched in 2021, hosting the inaugural Climate Futures Summit, which provided a forum for 255 in-person and 792 online attendees to hear from an interact with policy, industry, and research leaders.

UoM integrates sustainability principles into curriculum disciplines, offering 30 sustainability-focused courses with over 1,000 students enrolled annually. UoM’s achievements serve as a model for other institutions.

What the Judges Thought

UoM's Associate Deans appointed to the majority of their faculties demonstrates their commitment to sustainability in academia. Long-standing commitment to sustainability, coupled with significant achievements like net-zero emissions, and a strong integration of sustainability principles across disciplines and operations, demonstrates a high level of dedication. Biodiversity restoration (Nature Positive) is coming out very strongly, especially impactful given the size of their campus. Use of ISO to set benchmarks for M&R, which is a challenge and quite commendable. Strong reach statistics.

The university's role as a model for others and its focus on cross-disciplinary collaboration and impact makes it a strong contender. Social value procurement practices also commendable.

What it Means to Win

"It is an honour for the University of Melbourne to be recognised with this Sustainability Institute of the Year Award. For our student and staff community, this award is the occasion for celebration of our achievements and of our enthusiasm for action on sustainability. The award  inspires ongoing innovation in environmental stewardship among our staff, students and at leadership level."

Top 3 Learnings

1. Leveraging formal approval pathways and informal networks increases chances of change.
2. Allowing flexibility in actions to meet agreed targets fosters local commitment for action.
3. Friendly competition and fear of missing out (FOMO) can be useful motivators for change.