More UK Universities Cut Recruitment Links with Fossil Fuel Industry

More UK Universities Cut Recruitment Links with Fossil Fuel Industry
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More UK universities have ended recruitment partnerships with fossil fuel companies, according to the latest higher education sustainability league table, The Guardian reported. People & Planet, which compiles the annual ranking, said eight additional institutions had pledged to block fossil fuel firms from careers fairs and job advertising — an 80% increase since last year. In total, 18 universities, or about 12% of the sector, now restrict recruitment involvement from the industry.

Campaigners said the shift reflects growing concern about the role of fossil fuel companies in driving the climate crisis and the need for a “just transition” away from carbon-intensive sectors. This year’s league assessed 147 universities across 14 criteria related to environmental and social justice. Manchester Metropolitan University topped the table for the fourth consecutive year, credited for consistent performance and major investments in low-carbon heating projects.

The analysis also found rising support for migrant rights, with 13 universities divesting from companies involved in border control activities, up from six last year. Newer universities dominated the top rankings, while only three Russell Group institutions achieved a first-class score. Oxford rose 30 places to retain a 2:1 rating, and Cambridge moved from a third-class to a 2:2.