Swinburne commits to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

In a push to ensure a sustainable future Swinburne has committed to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Joining organisations from around the globe, Swinburne is committing to the 17 SDGs that aim to ‘transform our world’ through ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring prosperity for all on the road to 2030. 

The signing of the University Commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals was facilitated by the Australia/Pacific Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN Aus/Pac).  

“We are proud to commit to the Sustainable Development Goals and work towards a more equitable future for everyone,” says Swinburne’s Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Field.   

“The UN’s goals align with Swinburne’s values and 2025 strategy, building on our existing commitment to sustainability. The university's strengths and vision positions us to be a leader in the areas of health, gender equality and inclusivity, learning transformation, infrastructure and sustainable cities.” 

Swinburne’s green impact 

The announcement coincides with the launch of Swinburne’s ‘Green Impact’ program targeted at staff and students. 

Green Impact is the university’s sustainability engagement program that encourages students and staff to undertake practical actions geared towards developing a culture that values and applies sustainable practices. 

Developed by the National Union of Students in the UK, the program is an engaging and flexible way to make meaningful environmental and sustainability changes at the university. 

Green Impact has been implemented by over 400 organisations worldwide. 

Commitment to making a difference 

Swinburne’s commitment to the UN’s SDGs and the newly launched Green Impact program follows previous social impact initiatives and achievements including:

• the introduction of a Responsible Investment Charter, an action plan to financially support students of all backgrounds;
• external recognition by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency for gender equality in the workplace for the ninth year in a row; and
• a Financial Inclusion Action Plan to address financial exclusion with initiatives that support students enduring financial hardship, an Australian university first 

Swinburne is continuing to identify new opportunities in which to achieve the SDGs on the road to 2030. 

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