Top 10 Indian Colleges in QS World University Sustainability Rankings 2025

QS, an organization that releases rankings of educational institutions around the world, has released the World Sustainability Rankings 2025. This list includes 78 universities and colleges of India. In last year's list, IIT Delhi's global rank was 426, which has now become 171 this year. On the other hand, IIT Kharagpur has jumped 147 places from its last year's ranking and IIT Bombay has jumped 69 places. Out of the 78 Indian institutes included in the list, 21 are such that have made it to the list for the first time.

QS World University Rankings Sustainability 2025 has been released and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has emerged as the top-ranked Indian institute. IIT Delhi is ranked 171 globally and has scored 81.1 per cent in the environmental sustainability category.

IIT Delhi has made a significant improvement by climbing 255 places compared to last year. Last year its global ranking was 426. It is followed by IIT Kharagpur, which is ranked 202 globally and IIT Bombay is ranked 234.

QS Sustainability Rankings 2025

The QS Sustainability Rankings 2025 evaluate universities on two broad parameters: environmental impact and social impact. IIT Delhi scored particularly well in areas such as sustainability research, climate action, and education on sustainability. It has consistently prioritized initiatives linked to global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

After IIT Delhi, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore ranked second among Indian institutions, ranking 376th globally. Other Indian institutions featured in the rankings include IIT Bombay and IIT Madras, underlining the efforts being made towards sustainability in higher education across the country.

Globally, the University of California, Berkeley took the top spot, followed by the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia. The rankings measure the importance of adopting sustainability-focused research and education, an area where Indian institutions are making steady progress.

IIT Delhi Director Rangan Banerjee expressed pride in the institute's achievement. He attributed this success to the combined efforts of students, faculty and staff in integrating sustainability into the university's ethos. "Sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity. At IIT Delhi, we aim to lead by example and contribute to a greener future," he said.

Along with being a leader in education, IIT Delhi has taken several initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. These include adopting renewable energy sources, adopting efficient waste management systems, and promoting sustainable practices on campus.

A Trio of Indian Excellence

In addition to IIT Delhi, two other Indian IITs have secured prominent positions in the global rankings:

1. IIT Kharagpur: This prestigious institute has maintained its strong focus on sustainability, making it a leading force in India's higher education landscape. 
2. IIT Bombay: Known for its cutting-edge research and innovation, IIT Bombay has also made significant strides in advancing sustainable practices.

Out of the 78 Indian universities featured in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2025, nine of the top ten institutions have improved their global position. This year the list also includes 21 new entrants. Take a look at the top Indian institutions:

QS SUSTAINABILITY RANKINGS 2025: GLOBAL LEADERS

The University of Toronto topped the global QS Sustainability Rankings 2025, excelling in environmental sustainability (91 points) and environmental research (98.5 points).

The Importance of Sustainability in Higher Education

Sustainability is no longer a minor concern; it is a critical issue that affects all aspects of society. Higher education institutions have a vital role to play in addressing these challenges:

1. Educating the next generation of leaders: Universities and colleges can equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to build a sustainable future.
2. Conducting cutting-edge research: Institutions can foster innovation and develop solutions to environmental and social problems.
3. Promoting sustainable practices on campus: By adopting sustainable practices on campus, institutions can set an example for others and reduce their environmental impact.
4. Engaging with the community: Universities and colleges can work with local communities to promote sustainable development and address social issues.