MSU ranks No. 2 in nation for sustainability impact by Times Higher Education

June 30, 2026 - 02:00

Michigan State University has once again been recognized as a national leader in sustainability, earning the No. 2 ranking among U.S. institutions in the 2026 Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings. The global assessment measures how universities are advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, known as the SDGs.

The ranking evaluates institutions across multiple categories, including research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching related to sustainability. MSU's strong performance reflects its commitment to addressing issues like clean water, responsible consumption, and climate action. The university scored particularly high in areas tied to zero hunger and life on land, thanks to its agricultural research and conservation efforts.

MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz said the ranking highlights the university's dedication to creating solutions for a more sustainable future. He noted that faculty, staff, and students across campus are working together to tackle some of the world's most pressing environmental and social challenges.

This recognition places MSU behind only one other U.S. school in the rankings, reinforcing its reputation as a top-tier institution for sustainability research and education. The university has made sustainability a central part of its strategic plan, with goals to reduce carbon emissions, expand green infrastructure, and integrate sustainability into the curriculum.