Policies, strategies and plans

Our commitments to sustainability are set out through a range of strategies, policies and plans.  

Here you can find our formal documents, including the Framework for Environmental and Social Responsibility, Climate Plan and related policies, which show how sustainability is embedded across the University and aligned with our values and goals. 

Our Framework, Our Impact

The University of Leeds Framework for Environmental and Social Responsibility is our overarching approach to embedding sustainability across everything we do. It provides a shared vision, common language and clear structure for action across the University 

The Framework is guided by the University Strategy and supports delivery of the Climate Plan. It brings together our work in education, research, operations, partnerships and civic engagement, ensuring that environmental sustainability and social responsibility are embedded into everyday decisions and long-term planning. 

Delivering a Net Zero and Climate-Resilient Future 

Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time. Our Climate Plan sets out how the University will reduce its environmental impact, support climate adaptation and contribute to a healthier, greener and fairer future.  

Approved in 2021, the Plan is delivered through seven interconnected Climate Principles that influence how we teach, research, operate and invest. These principles include: 

• Delivering Net Zero
• Sustainable Travel
• Reorienting Research and Teaching
• Sustainable Curriculum
• Supporting a Net Zero City
• Responsible Investment
• Institutional Decision Making and Governance  

The Climate Plan continues to drive innovation across campus, support climate research and education, and create real-world opportunities for students, staff and partners to contribute to climate action.

Turning Ambition into Action

Our Framework and Climate Plan are supported by a wide range of strategies, delivery plans and roadmaps that guide activity across the University. Together, these documents set priorities, define responsibilities and help coordinate action across faculties, services and partners.  

Examples include: 

• Universal Values. Global Change University of Leeds Strategy 2020 - 2030 
• Enabling Strategy 
• Digital Transformation Strategy  
• Research and Innovation Strategy 
• Research Culture Strategy 
• Access and Student Success Strategy  
• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Plan  
• Campus Reimagined  
• Curriculum Redefined  
• Cultural Engagement Strategy  

These strategies support collective progress towards shared sustainability goals while recognising the different ways that faculties, schools and services contribute to environmental and social responsibility. 

Contributing to Global Progress

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a shared global framework for addressing major social, environmental and economic challenges. The SDGs inform the University's strategic direction and help shape how we measure and communicate our impact.  

Working Together for Greater Impact

Many sustainability challenges cannot be addressed by a single institution alone. We work with partners locally, nationally and internationally to share knowledge, influence policy and accelerate positive change.  

Our partnerships support progress across climate action, social responsibility, education, research and community engagement. They help strengthen our impact beyond campus and contribute to broader societal goals.  

Our external commitments include participation in sector-wide initiatives and global frameworks such as: 

• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 
• SDG Accord 
• United Nations Global Compact  
• Fairtrade University Award
• International sustainability networks and partnerships 
• Regional climate, civic and community collaborations 

These commitments provide accountability, opportunities for collaboration and a platform for sharing innovation and best practice.