What happens when two universities—one in the UK and one in the US—share not just a name, but a vision for sustainability in higher education?
That’s the story behind a recent student-led research project connecting the University of Worcester, UK, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Massachusetts. Their mission: to explore how sustainability is embedded in higher education—and how institutions can do better.
The Framework: Responsible Futures
At the heart of this project is Responsible Futures (RF), a UK-based accreditation program run by Students Organising for Sustainability SOS UK that empowers students to audit how well their universities integrate sustainability into student learning, including teaching, research, and campus life. Unlike other sustainability rankings, RF is unique because it’s student-led. Ensuring sustainability becomes deeply embedded in both the formal curriculum and the culture and values of the institution.
While RF has expanded internationally, no U.S. universities are currently part of the program. That’s where WPI comes in—as a case study to explore how RF could be adapted for American higher education. This project was sponsored by Responsible Futures and the University of Worcester.
The Study: A Tale of Two Campuses
The student research team conducted a gap analysis comparing sustainability efforts at WPI and the University of Worcester. They surveyed students and faculty, conducted interviews, and analysed how each institution approaches sustainability.
Key Findings:
- The University of Worcester has a more centralised, integrated approach to sustainability, closely aligned with the RF framework. This is not surprising, as they helped to establish the program during its pilot in 2015. They still have more to learn.
- WPI has strong sustainability initiatives, many of which already align with Responsible Futures.
- Students at both institutions are aware of sustainability issues, but many feel it’s not fully reflected in their academic experience.
- Faculty at both institutions support sustainability, but often lack the tools or time to embed it meaningfully into their teaching.
The Gaps—and the Opportunities
The research revealed that WPI and the University of Worcester could benefit from a Deeper integration of sustainability into both curriculum and co-curricular activities. WPI could gain by integrating Student-led initiatives that mirror the RF model, giving students a voice in shaping their university’s sustainability journey.
A Transatlantic Model for Change
This collaboration isn’t just about two universities—it’s about helping to create a blueprint for global sustainability in higher education. By learning from each other, WPI and the University of Worcester can lead the way in embedding sustainability into the heart of academia.
And for Responsible Futures, this study offers valuable insights into how the program could evolve to include U.S. institutions, bridging cultural and structural differences to create a truly international movement.
Final Thoughts
In a world facing urgent environmental challenges, universities have a unique role to play—not just in research, but in shaping the next generation of changemakers. This project proves that when students lead, institutions listen—and real change becomes possible.
So, whether you’re in Worcester, UK or Worcester, MA, one thing is clear: the future of sustainability in education is collaborative, student-powered, and global.
Watch the students who undertook this research present their findings.