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Research for sustainability

Many of the challenges facing society today, including climate change, biodiversity loss, health inequalities, resource scarcity and social injustice, are interconnected and require collaborative solutions. 

At the University of Leeds, researchers work across disciplines, sectors and borders to tackle pressing sustainability challenges through challenge led and transformational research. By bringing together expertise from the natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, arts, health and business, we generate new knowledge, evidence and practical solutions that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and support positive societal change. Research spans areas such as climate resilience, sustainable food systems, energy transition, water security, conservation, sustainable cities, health and wellbeing, and equitable development. Our collaborative approach also connects researchers with professional services, communities and external partners, creating innovative ideas, methods and partnerships that help address complex environmental and social challenges. 

Sustainability Research Institute

One of the University's flagship sustainability research centres, bringing together over 100 researchers working on climate change, energy, resource use, conservation, sustainable business, cities and communities.

Priestley Centre for Climate Futures

A university-wide climate centre that connects researchers across disciplines to develop evidence-based responses to climate challenges and support climate action.

Global Food and Environment Institute

Interdisciplinary research addressing food security, sustainable food systems, agriculture and environmental sustainability.

water@leeds

A cross-university research network focused on water-related challenges, bringing together expertise from engineering, environmental science, social science and policy.

Policy Leeds

Connecting researchers, policymakers and practitioners to translate world-leading research into evidence-informed policies that address major societal, economic and environmental challenges.

Energy Leeds

A university-wide network exploring sustainable energy systems, decarbonisation and the transition to net zero.

Geosolutions Leeds

Developing innovative geoscience research and partnerships to address global challenges including climate change, sustainable resources, environmental resilience and the transition to a low-carbon future.

Leeds Institute for Data Analytics (LIDA)

Using data science, AI and digital innovation to address major societal and environmental challenges.

Leeds Institute for Societal Futures

Bringing together researchers, policymakers, businesses and communities to co-create solutions that address complex societal challenges and deliver positive social, economic and environmental impact.

Leeds University Business School

Advancing research and education on responsible business, sustainability, and organisational transformation to address complex environmental, social and economic challenges in a rapidly changing world.

Cultural Institute

Bringing together researchers, cultural organisations and communities to explore how arts, culture and creativity can contribute to addressing social, environmental and global challenges.

Horizons Institute

Driving interdisciplinary collaboration across the University to address complex global challenges through innovative research, partnership working and systems-based approaches.

Healthtech Leeds

Advancing research and innovation in health technologies to improve health, wellbeing and healthcare outcomes.