University engagement for sustainability and greening has intensified, says EUA in new survey

A new report from the European University Association (EUA), based on 400 responses from higher education institutions (HEIs) across 43 countries in the European Higher Education Area, confirms that sustainability and greening efforts are rapidly becoming embedded within the strategic priorities of European universities.

The report, published on 27/11/2025, highlights a significant shift toward formalised policies and increased institutional commitment.

The 2025 survey, conducted between the end of March and mid-June, reveals that "European universities have become increasingly strategic about sustainability and greening. There has been a shift towards institutional policies, and more strategic and mainstreamed approaches".

By 2025, 84% of survey respondents reported having dedicated strategies in place, a major increase from 61% in 2021. Furthermore, almost all HEIs (95%) have concrete governance and steering mechanisms, with the number of institutions featuring dedicated leadership portfolios (e.g., vice-rector or dean) rising from 38% to 50% since 2021.

The vast majority of…