QS Sustainability : The University of Padua ranks first in Italy and top 100 universities in the world
26.10.2022
Today, the international agency QS published the results for its new Sustainability Ranking. The 2023 ranking assesses institutions from around the world to determine their environmental and social impact. The indicators measure research, teaching, and its connection with the local community based on its ability to drive sustainable development that accelerates changes in the environment, society, and governance (ESG-Environment Social Governance).
The classification was conducted by QS, in collaboration with Elsevier, Yale University, and the Academic Freedom Index. A selection of universities were previously analyzed by the QS WUR ranking on the basis of public and recognized evidence of its sustainability policy. Institutions are judged on their ability to stimulate a widespread culture of participation in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), a bibliometric indicator for excellence.
Only 700 universities were selected from 31 nations and analyzed on its social and environmental impact. The University of Padua ranks 61st in the world, and first in Italy.
Comments from University of Padua Rector Daniela Mapelli, “We are quite proud about these excellent results. Pursuing objectives of social, environmental, and economic sustainability is a fundamental objective to establish our University as a responsible, fair, and supportive institute of higher education. Years of great changes and important challenges await us. Implementing PNRR projects underscores the understanding that we are on the right path. This encouragement will drive us to continue our commitment on the subject of sustainability.”
Comments from University of Padua Vice Rector for Sustainability Francesca Da Porto, “This result is a recognition of the attention that the University places on its list of priorities. From human rights, inclusion, equal opportunities, to the energy and ecological transition, the University of Padua is dedicated to the protection of the environment and the recovery and enhancement of the artistic heritage of the city that hosts it. Not only are research and teaching of great quality, but also creating an environment in which these values are put into practice to improve the well-being of others and guarantee a better future. The results of this ranking fall in line with the prestigious ASviS "Giusta Transizione" award recently won by the University.”
Comments from University of Padua Joint Degree Delegate and International Ranking Mara Thiene, “The QS Sustainability Ranking focuses on social and environmental impact. Social impact is based on an institution's ability to provide solid preparation for careers and the University's reputation in the professional marketplace ( Employment & Opportunities). Other factors include gender equality and disability support policies (Equality). An institution's impact on the research of SDGs that concern the fight against poverty and hunger (SDG1 and 2), the health and well-being of living beings (SDG3) and drinking water and sanitation (SDG6), together with policy documentation welfare implemented on the Campus (Life Quality). A fourth indicator evaluates the impact on SDG4 (Impact of Education), i.e. making education more inclusive and equitable and how much an institution promotes life-long training and the recognition of reputation in the social sciences and art. Finally, a fifth indicator evaluates how the institutions collaborate in the dissemination of knowledge in less developed countries and therefore how they participate in raising the standard all over the world (Knowledge Exchange). The environmental impact evaluates the tools and methodologies offered to students that support sustainability practices, not limited to environmental sciences (Sustainable Education). A second indicator evaluates the institution's strategies and operations towards an environmentally sustainable future (Sustainable Institutions). Finally, the third environmental impact indicator evaluates the impact of the research conducted on the other United Nations SDGs: 7, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 (Sustainable Research).”
The University of Padua ranks 89th in the world for its Sustainable Education indicator and the 85th world for its Sustainable Institution indicator. The University of Padua also has a good performance in terms of social impact, with 118th position in the world in the Quality of Life and the 124th position in the Equality indicator.
