In a landmark recognition of its leadership in sustainability, the University of Sharjah has been awarded the “Year of Sustainability: Deeds, Not Words” mark by the UAE’s national sustainability team. This honor celebrates the University’s outstanding contributions to the country’s vision for a more sustainable and prosperous future, reaffirming its status as a key partner in the UAE’s sustainable development journey.

This achievement underscores the University’s deep commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals within the UAE. As part of the “Year of Sustainability: From Plan to Action” initiative, the University of Sharjah submitted a comprehensive portfolio highlighting its institutional excellence and innovative practices in entrenching sustainability across education, research, and community engagement.

At the heart of the University’s approach is a holistic vision for academic sustainability and green infrastructure. All students, regardless of discipline, now take an “Introduction to Sustainability” course, while specialized programs in renewable energy engineering, environmental sciences, and public health have been launched. Faculty members benefit from targeted workshops to integrate sustainability concepts into their teaching. On the research front, the University has published more than 7,000 sustainability-related papers in the past three years, as indexed by Scopus.

Sustainable infrastructure is another pillar of the University’s strategy. In partnership with the Sharjah Directorate of Public Works, UoS has adopted green building standards, expanded green spaces, and increased the use of natural lighting; measures that have reduced carbon emissions and improved campus life. The University has also implemented advanced resource management projects, including water recycling, the installation of water-saving fixtures, and the adoption of energy-efficient appliances. Innovative transport initiatives, such as free electric vehicle charging stations and e-scooter schemes, further demonstrate the University’s commitment to sustainable mobility.

Waste management and green innovation are equally prominent. UoS has pioneered composting, 3D printing using recycled plastics, converting used cooking oil into biofuel, and launched a “Paperless University” campaign. Notable scientific innovations include the “SolCharge” solar-powered EV charging project, the “Recycobot” recycling robot, microfluidic chips for water pollution monitoring, sustainable agriculture using treated wastewater, and an AI-powered app for safe medicine disposal.

Among the University of Sharjah’s flagship community initiatives is the “Sustainable Farm,” which produces organic fertilizer and crops on campus and has earned certification from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. The project supports local food security, raises awareness about organic products, and uses smart water management technologies. The University has also forged strong partnerships with organizations like Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority and the Social Services Department to advance energy, water, and environmental initiatives.

The University of Sharjah’s sustainability leadership is reflected in its impressive global rankings. It has secured the top spot nationally in the UI GreenMetric ranking for seven consecutive years and was the first Arab university to earn a Gold rating in the global STARS sustainability system. In 2024, the University was ranked 67th worldwide for sustainability, and sixth globally for infrastructure, according to the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings.

Looking ahead, the University is committed to building on these achievements through future-focused plans. These include curriculum development, expanding research, continuous environmental performance audits, and new partnerships. Initiatives to promote sustainable student lifestyles and mental health are also underway, all aimed at enhancing quality of life and ensuring a sustainable campus for generations to come.