McGill University jumped six spots to rank ninth in the newly released 2026 QS World University Rankings: Sustainability.
It continues to be the top-performing Quebec institution and one of three Canadian universities in the Top 10. The rankings are based on environmental impact, social impact and governance.
McGill earned strong scores in environmental impact, placing ninth in environmental education, 20th in research and 21st in sustainability. It ranked seventh for impact of education – one of the facets of social impact – which considers research relating to the UN’s sustainable development goal of equitable education.
“This recognition reflects the deep commitment of our entire McGill community to building a more sustainable future,” said François Miller, Executive Director, McGill Office of Sustainability.
“From research and innovation to campus operations and student engagement, sustainability is embedded in everything we do. We’re proud to be leading by example and honoured to be acknowledged on the global stage.”
World-class initiatives
This is the fourth edition of the QS Sustainability ranking and McGill’s best performance so far. Last year, it tied for 15th among 1,751 universities worldwide; this year, 2,002 institutions were considered, 41 of them in Canada.
The University of Toronto dropped from first to second place. The University of British Columbia remains in fifth place.
“We are thrilled to see Canada’s leading research universities recognized for their world-class sustainability initiatives,” said Robert Asselin, CEO of U15 Canada, whose membership includes all three Canadian institutions ranked in the top 10.
“U15 universities are delivering impact in communities across the country, advancing ambitious sustainability plans and pioneering climate solutions that will strengthen resilience in response to climate challenges. This recognition reflects the exceptional talent, leadership and commitment present at every U15 university,” Asselin said.
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