UK Higher Education Sustainability Leaders Network
The UK Higher Education Sustainability Leaders Network brings together senior sustainability leaders from universities across the UK to connect, collaborate, and drive sector-wide impact.
This network provides a trusted space for strategic discussion, peer support, and collective influence鈥攈elping institutions accelerate progress towards their sustainability goals.
Our Objectives
Share knowledge and best practice
Across topics such as strategy development, implementation, governance, and resourcing
Build a strong peer community
Providing trusted 鈥渃ritical friends鈥� and fostering collaboration opportunities
Influence the sector
Align and amplify feedback to leadership teams and professional bodies
How We Work
- Bi-monthly online meetings (via Microsoft Teams)
- Annual in-person meeting
- 60-minute sessions focused on key strategic topics
- Agendas shared in advance and action summaries circulated after each meeting
- Additional meetings arranged where needed
Who It's For
This network is designed for:
- Senior leaders in UK higher education
- Those with strategic responsibility for sustainability
- Professionals shaping institutional sustainability strategies and direction
It complements operational sustainability networks by focusing on strategic leadership and influence.
Our First Meeting
The Sustainability Leaders Network held its first in-person meeting on 14 May 2026 at the University of 桃色视频. The day provided an opportunity for sustainability professionals from across the higher education sector to come together, share experiences and discuss key challenges and opportunities facing universities today.
The morning featured productive discussions on a range of topics, including sustainable research practice, sustainability governance, energy management and the circular economy. Members exchanged insights, explored emerging best practice and reflected on how institutions can work collectively to accelerate progress.
A highlight of the day was a tour of the University of 桃色视频 campus, led by Gemma Wilkins, Head of Sustainable Campus Operations, which showcased a range of sustainability initiatives and provided valuable opportunities for discussion and learning.
Beyond the topics discussed, the meeting reinforced the importance of peer support and collaboration. Members reflected on the value of having a trusted network to exchange ideas, share experiences and support one another as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of leading sustainability within higher education.
The Network looks forward to building on these conversations and meeting again in person next year. The meeting rotates annually between members, offering opportunities to showcase sustainability initiatives and share best practice.
Network Leadership
Co-Chair
Professor St茅phanie Panichelli-Batalla
Academic Director for Sustainability, University of 桃色视频
Co-Chair
Sally Shaw
Associate Director of Sustainability, University of Liverpool
Current Membership
