A woman measuring the circumference of a mangrove branch.

Sustainability Framework and Plan

We're committed to building outstanding sustainability outcomes through our research, teaching and daily operations.

A shared foundation

Our Sustainability Framework and Plan defines how we understand and approach sustainability across the University. It provides a shared foundation for coordinated action, decision-making and accountability.

It also shapes how we teach, research, operate and engage with communities, helping us contribute to climate action, biodiversity protection, social wellbeing and thriving futures for people and planet.

Two people seated on a bench at UQ's Herston campus.

Sustainability Framework and Plan 2026–2029

Learn about how sustainability is understood, planned and put into practice across UQ.

Download the plan (PDF, 5.73 MB)

Transformation themes

At the heart of the Sustainability Framework and Plan are 3 transformation themes that bring UQ’s sustainability ambition to life and focus action where it can make the greatest difference.

Knowledge for sustainable futures

Education, research and capability that equip students, staff and partners to understand sustainability challenges and translate knowledge into action.

Enabling sustainable futures

Leadership, partnerships and institutional enablers that support coordinated and sustained action.

Regenerative campus systems

Campus systems, infrastructure and environments that support resilience, regeneration and applied innovation.

Principles

The Sustainability Framework and Plan introduces the core concepts that shape our sustainability vision and provides a shared foundation for coordinated action, decision-making and accountability across the University.

At its centre are place-responsive practice, long-term stewardship and regeneration, which guide how UQ considers its responsibilities to current and future generations. These foundations are supported by principles that translate them into ways of working.

Shared responsibility

  • Collaborative action: we recognise that sustainability outcomes depend on coordinated effort across the University, with different areas contributing in complementary ways.
  • Collaboration and partnership: we work across disciplines, sectors, communities and partners to create shared responses to complex sustainability challenges.

Systems transformation

  • Systems thinking: we recognise the connections between social, environmental, economic and cultural dimensions of sustainability and the need to respond across whole systems.
  • Capability and inclusion: we strengthen sustainability capability through inclusive participation, diverse perspectives and opportunities for shared learning and action.

Continuous improvement

  • Evidence and accountability: we use data, research, evaluation and reflection to inform decisions and demonstrate tangible impact.
  • Continuous learning: we acknowledge that sustainability requires learning, adaptation and ongoing review as contexts, knowledge and priorities evolve.

Looking ahead

As our sustainability maturity continues to grow, we will:

  • refine our priorities
  • strengthen our governance
  • build on emerging knowledge and best practice.

This adaptive approach ensures we remain responsive to changing environmental, social and economic challenges while continuing to create positive impact for our communities and future generations.

UQ remains committed to supporting just and inclusive transitions, strengthening its response to climate risks, and ensuring that emerging technologies, including AI, are governed and applied responsibly, ethically, and with attention to their sustainability implications.

Our vision is not achieved through a single initiative or plan, but through the collective actions of our people. Together, we will continue to build a university that contributes meaningfully to a more sustainable, resilient and equitable future.