An Analysis of the Performance of Irish Higher Education Institutions Against Global Sustainability Ranking Systems

Abstract

The escalating global climate crisis necessitates an urgent and transformative shift towards sustainability across all sectors of society, demanding both immediate action and long-term commitment. As part of the international response, global frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have called upon Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to leverage their unique position to address environmental, social and economic challenges. However, the extent to which Irish HEIs are responding remains relatively unclear. This article analyses their performance against three leading international sustainability ranking systems: the QS World University Rankings; Sustainability, the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking. Analysis reveals notable variation in Irish HEIs’ sustainability performance, with some institutions gaining strong international recognition while others remain less visible or absent from global rankings.

To explore the reasons behind this variation, this article examines the methodologies underpinning these ranking systems and investigates internal barriers within HEIs that may be limiting progress. Drawing on international literature, the review examines commonly reported barriers, including the complexity of sustainability, lack of senior management support, financial constraints and institutional resistance to change. In response, the article outlines strategic pathways to advance sustainability in Irish higher education, emphasising the need for long-term, collaborative approaches that can both support underrepresented institutions and sustain momentum in those already progressing. These findings contribute to broader conversations about how sustainability can be effectively embedded and measured across diverse Irish higher education contexts.