About the Institute for Sustainability
The Institute for Sustainability at the University of Surrey has been designed as a ‘synthesis centre’, bringing together social and natural scientists, technologists and non-academic stakeholders in the public, private and third sector to advance transdisciplinary research in sustainability. The Institute facilitates interconnections between world-leading experts, and generates and promotes innovative ideas and approaches for sustainability.
Our philosophy of work
Sustainability as wellbeing
Achieve long-term wellbeing for all by promoting a comprehensive transformation through social, economic, policy and technological innovation.
This pillar will explore, for example, sustainable diets, active transport and the provision of more sustainable leisure and tourism activities, reform of economies and businesses, protection of animal welfare and nature, while simultaneously tackling increasing inequalities.
Research and action
Advance research and action in key areas such as food, energy, circular economies, behavioural change, public health, ecosystems, finance, air pollution, governance, infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and more.
In this pillar we build on Surrey’s outstanding track record in the technological development of energy systems; novel foods; sustainable urban environments including green city landscapes and watershed protection; transport, travel and tourism systems; water provision; and clean air to enable radical reductions in carbon emissions and protection of the natural environment.
Whole systems
Adopt a ‘systems’ approach, highlighting the interconnectedness of all research themes and action areas (transdisciplinary and multi-sectoral collaboration).
In the holistic systems approach, sustainability experts work alongside psychologists, sociologists and economists to tackle the barriers to change such as acceptability and affordability.
The foundation of the Institute for Sustainability
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1966
The University is established
Established as a University in 1966, the University of Surrey has a rich history of pioneering areas of teaching and research and was one of the first universities to offer all students an option of a year in industry.
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1992
CES is founded
In 1992, the Centre for Environment and Sustainability (CES) was established as a hub for interdisciplinary research in sustainability which quickly gained an international reputation.
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2016
CUSP is launched
The Centre for the Understanding of Sustainable Prosperity (CUSP) was launched in 2016, to be an international network that brings together experts from academic and non-academic backgrounds to drive the vision of sustainable prosperity for all.
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2020
Net Zero target agreed
Surrey has set the ambitious commitment to be Net Zero carbon by 2030 and – through its research and teaching – acts as a catalyst for new thinking, new collaborations, and experimentation.
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2021
Climbed the impact rankings
Surrey is ranked 55th in the world in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings, which assesses performance against a range of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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2022
The Institute is founded
As part of its vision to drive research excellence, Surrey has established the Institute for Sustainability to build on its research themes and break new ground in producing world-class research, innovation and education that addresses urgent global sustainability challenges.
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2023
Fellows recruited
200+ sustainability fellows recruited and the Institute for Sustainability unveils 12 research themes
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Moved into top 50 for sustainability impact
University of Surrey placed 9th in the UK and 46th globally in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2023
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Win first award
'Remember the Future' animation wins at Cannes World Film Festival
Find out more about the Institute's purpose and transdisciplinary work from Director, Prof. Lorenzo Fioramonti.