press release
Published: 29 November 2023

New report showcases Surrey's progress in UN's Sustainable Development Goals

From helping people improve their diet and reduce disease through developing cooking skills to collaborating with the World Health Organization in ensuring safe drinking water, the University of Surrey's latest report highlights its contributions to delivering the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Front cover of SDG report

Additionally, the report highlights Surrey's plans for a 12-megawatt solar facility to help decarbonise the University's energy usage and the foundation of a new Sustainability Innovation Hub. This hub aims to support and drive sustainability in business, further aligning with the SDGs.

As we approach the United Nations' COP 28, and with the UN itself acknowledging the need for more progress to fulfil the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are prioritising the University's contributions to these goals across the board.

Now in its second year, our SDG report shows the University making a tangible difference in our local community in Guildford, across the UK and globally, through research, innovation, teaching, learning, and on-campus activities. Professor Bob Nichol, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean (FEPS)

Selected highlights in the report include Professor Monique Raats' research addressing SDG goal 2 (Zero Hunger). Professor Raats leads a project improving our understanding of cooking practices worldwide to develop programmes that enhance culinary skills and diets.

The report also features critical work in assisting the World Health Organization in refining guidelines for safe drinking water, contributing to SDG goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation). Dr Kathy Pond and her team at the Centre for Environmental Health and Engineering are examining how small water supplies are maintained safely, the checks performed on the water, and the use of the resulting data. The University is a designated WHO Collaborating Centre for the Protection of Drinking Water and Human Health.

The report highlights Professor Tony Myatt's creation of a state-of-the-art sound and light installation featuring recordings of the elusive blue whale. The project, titled 'The Symphony of Life on Planet Ocean,' showcases the devastating impact of sound pollution on marine life, addressing SDG goal 14 (Life Below Water).

There is truly exciting research and innovative thinking happening at Surrey, aiming not just to address the climate emergency but also to envision a world where everyone can lead a fulfilling life within our planet's resources.

The University continually demonstrates its commitment to sustainability with projects like the solar facility and the introduction of the Sustainability Innovation Hub, furthering our mission in this vital area. Nathalie Hinds, Director, Institute Operations, Innovation and Partnerships

Read the full SDG report (PDF).

 

Notes to editors  

  • Professor Nichol is available for interview upon request.
  • For more information, please contact the University's press office via mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk.

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Bob Nichol

Prof Bob Nichol

Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean (FEPS)
Nathalie Hinds

Nathalie Hinds

Director, Institute Operations, Innovation and Partnerships

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