Research and the UN SDGs

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.  

NUI Galway Research contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

At NUI Galway we recognise the critical role that universities must play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and we are committed to the SDGs at an institutional level NUI Galway Sustainability - NUI Galway is a signatory of the SDG Accord and a member of both Coalition 2030 and Global Challenges University Alliance (GCUA). Delivering sustainable development is central to our strategic plan; Shared Vision, Shaped by Values which presents sustainability as one of four key pillars reflecting our institution’s core values of Respect, Openness, Sustainability and Excellence.

As the research community at NUI Galway continues to make significant contributions to achieving the goals of sustainable development and the wider endeavour of our institution in this regard, it is important that we recognise and record this work. Consider how your research contributes to the UN SDGs and the associated targets and complete this short form: My Research and the UN SDGs

The information provided by you will be used to track progress and contribute to:

• University of Galway’s commitment to increase research activity aligned to the SDGs across all colleges and research institutions establishing a baseline of funded research projects aligned to the SDGs of over 60% by 2025 (NUI Galway Sustainability Strategy 2021-2025).   
• University of  Galway’s annual submission to the Times High Education (THE) University Impact Ranking. Launched in 2019, THE University Impact Ranking aims to provide a showcase for the work being delivered by universities in our communities, and an opportunity to shine a light on institutional activities and efforts not covered in other rankings. The Impact Ranking aims to capture the impact of Universities on society based on an institution's success in delivering the UN SDGs.

For the unversity's latest Sustainability Report click here.