The University of Windsor has once again advanced in a global ranking, jumping more than 250 places to secure a spot among the world’s top 400 sustainable institutions.

In its annual sustainability assessment released Monday, the QS World University Rankings positioned the University of Windsor at 382 out of 1,403 institutions globally. This significant jump from last year’s 641-650 ranking reflects the University’s commitment to environmental responsibility, said president Rob Gordon.

“We are dedicated to integrating sustainability into our teaching, research, and operations, creating a University environment where it’s not just a concept or goal but a way of life,” Dr. Gordon said.

The QS World University Rankings: Sustainability, compiled by higher education analytics firm Quacquarelli Symonds, highlights how universities are tackling the world’s greatest environmental, social, and governance issues.

Environmental sustainability is a key focus and a priority in the University of Windsor’s new strategic plan, Aspire.

Recent initiatives include installing a hybrid chiller — a first of its kind at a Canadian university — and electrical vehicle charging stations. The University also introduced a zero-waste landfill pilot project and will soon release its carbon neutral plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent in seven years and achieve net zero by 2050.

“We all must do our part to reduce our environmental footprint,” Gordon said. “The University of Windsor is taking bold steps to cultivate a more sustainable campus, now and for future generations.”

This marks the third time in recent months that the University of Windsor has achieved its highest-ever placement in an international university ranking.

In September, Windsor advanced nearly 100 spots to place among the top third of universities globally in the World University Rankings by the Times Higher Education.

In July, it was listed among the top 44 percent of universities in the overall QS World University Rankings, where it also moved up 100 positions.