Sustainability at The Open University

We are dedicated to creating and sharing knowledge and learning to realise social and environmental justice.
We see our primary roles in sustainability as:

  • An educator – placing sustainability at the heart of our teaching, research and knowledge exchange.
  • A business – championing best practice across all four nations of the UK.
View of the sky through a canopy of trees

Sustainability at The Open University

Upcoming events

Jan 1

Courses: Climate Change: Transforming your Organisation for Sustainability

Monday, January 1, 2024 - 13:00 to Tuesday, December 24, 2024 - 13:00

Jan 2

Training: Free Carbon Literacy Training (OU Staff and Students)

Tuesday, January 2, 2024 - 00:45 to Tuesday, December 31, 2024 - 15:00

Net Zero Wales roadmap

Nations and Travel

The Open University is unique in being a trusted partner and leading provider of higher education in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, as well as having many students in the Republic of Ireland. Find out more information about sustainability in the Nations.

People walking on a beach in the foreground, with coastal wind turbines in the distance

Study Sustainability

Whether you wish to study for personal interest, professional development, or are looking to gain a qualification, we have a course for you.

OU representatives at COP26

Get involved

There are several ways for staff and students to get involved in sustainability activities, find out how you can help to shape future initiatives.

Professor Mark Brandon working on the ice in front of a ship

Research & Knowledge Exchange

Read about our thriving Research and Knowledge Exchange community to understand the processes and systems that nourish and sustain us and our planet.

Walton Hall Campus Building

Environment and Social Justice

The OU has helped more than 2.3m people achieve their learning goals – and our mission has evolved into one of environmental and social justice.

Trees in a forest

Explore Sustainability Projects

Leading examples of how the OU’s pioneering sustainability research is actively protecting and regenerating our planet.

Whale shark swimming with a pink plastic bag

The OU and the BBC

For over 50 years, The OU and the BBC have worked together co-producing hundreds of hours of programming and bringing learning to life for millions around the world.

The Open University's Milton Keynes campus

The OU as a business

View our policies, statements, reports and guidance relating to sustainability.

Sustainability Brochure

Download the Sustainability brochure

Read about sustainability projects at the OU.