Wellington from above.

Explore sustainability

Sustainability is an urgent global issue. Our vision to be a zero-carbon university by 2030 is reflected in our research, our campuses, and our work with partners around the world.

Sustainable at our heart

#36 in the world

We rank highly in the Times Higher Education impact rankings, based on the UN Sustainability Development Goals.

177 researchers

We have 177 researchers undertaking work with significant contribution to sustainable development.

CO2 down by 23,000 tonnes

Since 2007, we have saved 23,000 tonnes of carbon emissions by our sustainable practices.

Video still: Dr Shalini Divya talking, with a leafy background.

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Study options for sustainable thinkers

Victoria University of Wellington has a strong reputation for research and teaching in climate change and environmental science. Yet, sustainable thinking is important in everything we do—from data capture to tourism to design. You can choose to study sustainability across a wide range of disciplines to make the world a better place.

A female student, wearing safety glasses and a lab coat, holds up a beaker of blue liquid and looks at it.

 Bachelor of Science

Apply your curiosity, absorb knowledge, observe phenomena, experiment with ideas, and maybe even be part of making new discoveries in sustainable science. 
A blue river, in the centre of the photo, flows over rocks and into a pool, surrounded by greenery

Master of Conservation Biology 

Link conservation, ecology, biodiversity, and sustainability to gain the scientific expertise you'll need to carry out conservation work around the world. 
Birds eye view of the ocean with several icebergs and ice sheets floating in it.

Master of Climate Change Science

Gain insight into climate change challenges in science and policy-making across a range of disciplines to address the real-world problem of climate change.

Bachelor of Architectural Studies

Learn how to design and shape the built environment with an eye on sustainable practices and environmental science.

Master of Design Innovation

Assess new technologies and investigate the social, cultural, environmental, and economic impacts of design on our world.

Master of Business (Professional)

Advance your business career with a solid grounding in contemporary business practice, specialising in sustainable business. 
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Professor James Renwick

Everything we thought we knew about the climate is changing everywhere. To adapt, we will need technological solutions, policy solutions, and leaders who can motivate individuals to take action.

Professor James Renwick

Climate scientist and head of the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences

Sustainability in action

Welcome to sustainability

Welcome to sustainability

Learn about Victoria University of Wellington's commitment to sustainability, including reducing emissions and achieving a goal of net zero carbon by 2030.
PhD candidate, Dan Lowry, is conducting research on the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica.

Rethink sustainability

 As climate science and policies continue to be debated worldwide, our top scientists and world climate experts are closely watching Antarctica.
Winners of the Australasian Green Gown Award

Green Gown Award winner

For the third year in a row, the University has been honoured with a prestigious Australasian award for its sustainability leadership.
Wellington Harbour

Wellington is a clean, green city

Wellington is renowned for its fresh air and outdoor spaces. You are never more than a few minutes away from its scenic harbour, waterfront, beaches, forests, and coastlines.

Discover Wellington

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