UI GreenMetric university sustainability trends

The 2026 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings highlight a growing emphasis on sustainability within higher education institutions across several regions.

In Azerbaijan, Deputy Minister of Science and Education Hasan Hasanli reported that 19 higher education institutions are now included in the rankings. Discussions at the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University emphasized the role of universities in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals and the importance of international partnerships in driving green transformation.

In Turkey and Egypt, the rankings show similar trends of engagement. Trakya University in Turkey rose to 176th globally, reflecting a commitment to green campus practices. In Egypt, participation increased to 47 universities, with Alexandria University maintaining its position as the top-ranked Egyptian institution. Egyptian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Abdel Aziz Qansoua, noted that increased participation reflects a national focus on implementing sustainability practices within campus environments.

The full release of the 2026 rankings evaluates 2,016 institutions across 110 countries based on environmental performance metrics such as energy, waste, water, and transport.

Turkey has emerged as a leader, ranking first in Europe for the number of participating universities and second globally. Notable Turkish institutions include Istanbul Technical University, ranked 28th globally, and Yıldız Technical University, ranked 45th. In Egypt, Alexandria University remains the top-ranked institution in both the country and Africa, placing 107th globally. Additionally, Tunisia’s University of Carthage secured the top national spot and ranked 22nd in Africa, placing 655th globally.