The University of Tasmania's climate credentials have received international acclaim.
The Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings, released last night AEST, assesses universities against the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The University of Tasmania ranked third of the 376 institutions worldwide which submitted data for the Climate Action SDG.
The methodology behind THE Climate Action includes:
· Academic output – such as research and teaching;
· The proportion of low-carbon energy used;
· Collaboration with community and government around climate change impacts, mitigation and adaption, and
· Commitment to being carbon neutral.
"The importance we see in this scheme is it measures the difference a university is making both in the world and in its community," Professor Black said.
"It includes both the knowledge universities contribute, but also the direct things they do in how they operate as an enterprise.
"We are very proud of our contribution through research and teaching, and the people who do those things, and equally that we've taken tangible steps, such being an early mover to become certified carbon neutral."
Professor Black said in an era of pressing global challenges, it was critical not to lose sight of climate change as one of the greatest facing society.
"Our mission is to make a difference for Tasmania, and from Tasmania to the world," Professor Black said.
"Tasmania has environmental values that are of global significance and, as islanders, we have obligations of stewardship.
"As we think about that stewardship and the broader task of being sustainable, we are guided in our thinking by the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
"This outcome in the Times Higher Education impact rankings is an endorsement of the fine work our researchers, students and staff are doing across the institution."
