Sustainability
Driving change toward a sustainable future for our local, regional and global societies.
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Sustainability at UWA
We recognise our deep connection to Country and aim to embed sustainability across our teaching, research, operations, and partnerships. We are committed to caring for our campus, fostering a culture of inclusion and stewardship, and empowering our graduates and researchers to tackle complex global challenges. This commitment is reflected in UWA’s achievement of the STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System) Silver rating, a globally recognised framework for measuring sustainability performance in higher education.
Through clear actions and measurable targets, we will strengthen sustainability education, enable impactful research aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and ensure our operations minimise harm and create long-term value.
At The University of Western Australia, sustainability is a responsibility we embrace with purpose. Our approach is guided by the principles of One with Boodja - Caring for our Place, Purpose and People.Dr Richard Walley OAM (UWA Cultural Advisor)
Environmental sustainability
The Environmental Sustainability Strategy outlines UWA’s commitment to reducing environmental impact across campus operations.
It sets out priority areas - carbon, energy, water, waste, and biodiversity with clear targets and initiatives that support sustainable resource use, climate action, and long-term resilience.
Sustainability in research
UWA has recognised research strengths in areas that directly address the Sustainable Development Goals.
Clean energy transition and sustainable resources
At UWA, we are developing clean energy technologies that are becoming critical as ecosystems face a myriad of challenges.
Our advanced knowledge of how air, water, terrestrial and marine systems can improve environmental quality through practical innovations will power the transition to a sustainable and emission-free energy future.
Health and biotechnology
We undertake pioneering research that leads to better health and well-being outcomes for individuals and communities.
Our collaborative, interdisciplinary approach, backed by the latest technologies as well as partnerships with industry, enables us to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in healthcare.
Frontier technologies
At UWA, we are seeking solutions for tomorrow. From artificial intelligence, data science and cyber security to space innovation, our work not only pushes the boundaries of what's possible but also addresses the pressing challenges of our time. Our researchers are paving the way to address questions of ethics and how scientific progress can have a positive impact in a technologically advanced world.
Sustainability in education
UWA offers a range of courses and units that explicitly or implicitly address sustainability.
Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
This undergraduate course equips students to address complex social and environmental challenges through interdisciplinary learning. Students develop practical skills and knowledge to create meaningful change, contributing to a sustainable and just future.
Master of Architecture (Design)
The Master of Architecture integrates sustainability and cultural awareness into the design of the built environment. Students learn to design with Country, embedding environmental, social, and cultural values into architecture and urban design.
The Sustainable Development Goals [ENVT5518]
This unit explores the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through scientific, practical, and policy lenses, equipping students to understand their global and local context, interconnectedness, and implementation. Students will critically analyse challenges and solutions, use key SDG tools, and apply sustainability literacy through real-world examples. The unit develops essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, social responsibility, and collaboration to effectively engage with the SDGs.
