The THE Impact Rankings are global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Firmly in the top 100, Queen's has been positioned 85 out of 1,591 institutions worldwide for impact in SDG implementations. Last year Queen's also ranked as position 85, against only 1,406 institutions compared to this year's 1,591, meaning the University has further climbed from 6.04 per cent to the top 5.34 per cent worldwide.

Queen's University Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Greer said: "We are delighted to be recognized in the top six per cent of universities worldwide, reflecting our commitment to making a positive impact on our environment as an institution.

"Our Strategy 2030 sets out how we will embed the UN Sustainable Development Goals across all our activities, from research and education to adopting a leadership role in the promotion of the SDGs. The THE Impact Rankings specifically score against the SDGs, showing we are on the right path to achieving our strategic goals around sustainability."

Carefully calibrated indicators are used to provide a comprehensive and balanced comparison across four broad areas: research, stewardship, outreach and teaching.

The University was ranked against five relevant SDGs including: Reduced Inequalities; Life below Water; Life on Land; Partnership for the Goals and Responsible Consumption and Production. The University scored in the top one per cent (number 7) for the latter, an SDG about ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns, which is key to sustaining the livelihoods of current and future generations.

Professor Michael Alcorn, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Strategic Projects, said: "We are proud to be listed 85 worldwide in these globally significant rankings. We constantly strive to do more around sustainability across our research, teaching and management of our University.

"The University is currently putting the final touches to its Net Zero strategy which is increasing our emphasis on sustainable travel, enhancing biodiversity and reducing waste. We are delighted to have this recognition as we lead by example in areas such as equality, diversity and inclusion, sustainable procurement and our commitment to disinvestment from fossil fuels."