DCU first in Ireland for Environmental Sustainability

Dublin City University has improved scores and ranks in all three categories; environmental impact, social impact, and governance in the global QS Sustainability 2026 rankings, which examine how third-level institutions are tackling the world's environmental and social challenges.

DCU also improved its ranking to third in Ireland out of 10 institutions, 60th in Europe out of 621 institutions, and 114th globally out of 2002 institutions. The University's global position has improved 60 places from 2025, despite 250 more institutions participating in this year’s ranking. DCU is also ranked first in Ireland for Environmental Sustainability.

Speaking about the results, Professor Dáire Keogh, DCU President said:

“I am delighted to see the University’s continued commitment to sustainability reflected in our advances in this year’s rankings. DCU’s ranking as number one in Ireland for environmental sustainability is a particular point of pride. Our overall position, among the top six per cent of institutions globally, is thanks to the dedication of staff and students across the DCU community.”

Samantha Fahy, Sustainability Manager at DCU, said:

“The QS Sustainability Ranking highlights the need for universities to play a leadership role in addressing the immense challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.  It is great to see DCU actively contributing in this leadership role. As a university, we must continue to support the science and communicate a clear and transparent message on the collective actions needed to deliver a just transformation for our sector, our current students and future generations."

For more information about Sustainability at DCU, please visit the website.