uOttawa climbs in QS Sustainability Rankings

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Sustainability
Winter view of the University of Ottawa campus.
Winter view of the University of Ottawa campus.
The University of Ottawa continues to shine as a leader in sustainability, as highlighted in the QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2025. This year, uOttawa ranks eighth in Canada and 90th globally, up one place nationally from 2024.

Despite facing increased competition—1,743 institutions were ranked this year compared to 1,400 last year—uOttawa’s overall score improved to 87.3 from last year’s 84.4.This underscores the University’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

These results reflect uOttawa’s holistic approach to critical global challenges, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. As QS indicates, this ranking captures how institutions are building a sustainable future through academics, research and governance.

Key sub-category achievements include:

  • Knowledge Exchange: 63rd globally
  • Good Governance: 64th globally (considering factors related to good governance: ethics, hiring practices, transparency, decision making, etc.)
  • Social Impact: 74th globally(aggregating five indicators: Equality, Knowledge Exchange, Impact of Education, Employability & Opportunities, and Health & Wellbeing)

“At uOttawa, sustainability is more than a goal—it is a responsibility we embrace on behalf of our students and our entire community,” said Jacques Frémont, uOttawa president and vice-chancellor. “Guided by our Transformation 2030strategic vision, we are committed to advancing sustainability through meaningful actions that create lasting impact.”

The University’s achievements in areas such as knowledge exchange, good governance and social impact reflect our role as a catalyst for change. By using research and education to address complex global challenges, uOttawa fosters equity, innovation and a sustainable future. With commitments to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 and becoming a zero-waste campus, uOttawa is showing leadership through high-impact initiatives like divesting fossil fuel holdings and pioneering waste reduction practices.

Learn more about the QS Sustainability Rankings.