The People and Planet University League, published by the Guardian, has revealed the University’s commitment to environmental issues has not only kept it in 9th position but has also seen it crowned greenest university in Wales.

The League awards UK universities degree-style classifications based on their environmental and ethical management and performance.  The ranking is important as students want the university they choose to be a ‘sustainable’ institution.

Swansea was judged to be a first class institution after picking up full marks in the auditing and environmental management systems, carbon management and energy sources categories.

It also scored highly for its:

• Environmental policy
• Sustainability staff
• Sustainable food
• Waste & recycling

Vice-Chancellor Elect Paul Boyle said he was delighted that Swansea had been able to maintain its place despite increasing competition.

He said:  “Our ranking as Greenest University in Wales and 9th in the UK out of 154 educational institutions is something that our staff, students and friends will be immensely proud of.

“Young people – including our students – are increasingly aware of the need for educational establishments to take real action to tackle the challenges facing the environment, the Earth’s climate and the global impact of our actions.

“We are all pleased that Swansea University has been recognised for taking the lead on behalf of future generations, and we remain fully committed to not only reducing our negative impact but also maximising our positive impacts on the environment and society.”

Dr Heidi Smith, the University’s Head of Sustainability and Staff Wellbeing added: “To maintain our position in the top 10 really does show just how hard our staff and students are working towards a common goal.

“We are very proud that the innovative approach we have adopted of embedding sustainability across the University is really paying dividends.”