Evaluating the performance of Riga Technical University (RTU) in implementing the United Nations (UN) 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), RTU cooperation program has ranked between 201 and 300 among the world’s universities that are most successful in achieving sustainability goals. RTU work in promoting sustainable innovations and fighting against climate change is rated the highest – the 29th position, and in this goal RTU has achieved the highest results compared to other Latvian higher education institutions, according to the latest data of the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022.
The efforts of RTU in achieving the 13th goal have been highly evaluated—to take urgent measures to fight against climate change and its effects. RTU ranks 29th in this position, significantly increasing its performance this year compared to 64th position last year. The second best performance of RTU, ranking 58th, is in ensuring the 7th goal—renewable energy. RTU is ranked 82nd in the world in terms of the 9th goal — to create a sustainable infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. No other Latvian higher education institution has been rated so highly in these criteria.
RTU work in achieving other UN goals is also highly appreciated. For example, in the achievement of the 8th goal—to promote sustainable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, as well as decent work for everyone—RTU ranks in the 101–200 band among the world’s universities. RTU also occupies the same place in the implementation of the 12th goal—to ensure sustainable consumption habits and production patterns—and the 16th goal—to promote an inclusive society and create responsible and inclusive institutions. RTU ranks in the 201–300 band in achieving the 11th goal—to make cities and settlements inclusive, safe, adaptable and sustainable.
Climate neutrality is an absolute priority of RTU, and a great contribution has been made in this field by RTU Institute of Environmental Protection and Heating Systems, which conducts research in the field of power engineering and environmental science, develops and commercializes products with high added value, as well as implements Doctoral study programs," says RTU Director of Administration Juris Iljins.
He emphasizes that sustainable development, in general, is one of RTU priorities, which the university brings to life in various areas, for example, in 2018 Green Kipsala concept was created, paying increased attention to sustainable, smart and environmentally-friendly development. The aim of the university is to increase the awareness of students, employees and the whole society about the need to reduce the ecological footprint and to promote the creation and use of environmentally-friendly technologies. Efforts to put these goals into practice are also reflected in RTU assessment by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022.
Implementing the goals of sustainable development, RTU has been involved and is active in the most important international cooperation organizations, such as the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, etc.
This year, 1406 universities from 106 countries have participated in the ranking.
