UK Universities Sever Ties with Fossil Fuel Industry

Recent analysis reveals a significant shift in the UK higher education sector, with eight additional universities severing recruitment ties with fossil fuel companies. This marks an 80% increase from the previous year, bringing the total number of institutions refusing to advertise roles in the fossil fuel industry to 18, which constitutes 12% of the sector. The findings are part of the People and Planet university league table, which evaluates 147 UK universities based on 14 criteria related to climate and social justice.

The Guardian

Josie Mizen, co-director of climate justice at People and Planet, expressed optimism about the trend, stating, “We’re delighted to see a growing number of universities cutting their ties with the fossil fuel industry – the industry most responsible for fuelling the climate emergency.” Mizen emphasized the importance of transitioning away from fossil fuels, noting that it requires not only policy changes but also an end to funneling graduates into what she termed a "dead-end industry."

The Guardian

Manchester Metropolitan University has been recognized as the top performer in the league table for the fourth consecutive year, attributed to its high scores across various sustainability categories. The university has made significant investments in energy efficiency, including a major heat decarbonisation retrofit project aimed at replacing gas-fired heating systems with electric ground and water source heat pumps.

The Guardian

In addition to severing ties with fossil fuel companies, the analysis highlighted that the number of universities divesting from private companies involved in border control has increased from six to 13. Andre Dallas, co-director of migrant justice at People and Planet, remarked on this development as a crucial step in “delegitimising the border industry,” reflecting a growing commitment among students and staff to advocate for more compassionate policies regarding migration.

The Guardian

The report also indicates a decline in performance among traditional universities, particularly those in the Russell Group. Only three of these institutions received a first-class award this year, a decrease from six two years ago. The University of Oxford improved its ranking by 30 places, maintaining a 2:1 classification, while the University of Cambridge moved up 10 places from a 3rd to a 2:2.

The Guardian

The People and Planet league table serves as a critical tool for assessing university commitments to sustainability and social justice. The growing number of institutions taking action against fossil fuel recruitment reflects a broader movement within academia to address climate change and promote ethical practices.

The Guardian

Despite the positive developments, some critics argue that the actions taken by universities may not be sufficient to address the scale of the climate crisis. They contend that while severing recruitment ties is a step in the right direction, more comprehensive measures are needed to effect real change within the industry and society at large.

The Guardian

• “Josie Mizen, co-director of climate justice at People and Planet, which carried out the study said: “We’re delighted to see a growing number of universities cutting their ties with the fossil fuel industry – the industry most responsible for fuelling the climate emergency.” — Josie Mizen, Co-director of Climate Justice, People and Planet

The Guardian

• “As government policy continues to double down on the scapegoating of migrating people, it is inspiring to see students and workers taking a stand to demand an alternative future characterised by compassion rather than cruelty.” — Andre Dallas, Co-director of Migrant Justice, People and Planet

The Guardian