University showcases award-winning research, sustainability initiatives and environmental projects supporting the UAE’s long-term sustainability goals.

On World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is highlighting a series of sustainability initiatives, research projects and environmental achievements that reflect its growing focus on sustainable development and environmental innovation.

Over the past year, the university has expanded its work across a range of sustainability-related areas, including waste management, sustainable consumption, marine biodiversity and environmental governance. The institution says its approach combines research, education and community engagement to address environmental challenges while contributing to practical solutions.

Earlier this year, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi was awarded first place in the Environmental Research Institute category of the Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Environmental Award, recognising its contributions to environmental research and innovation. The achievement aligns with the university’s Sustainability Strategy 2030, which focuses on sustainability across campus operations, education, research, partnerships and community engagement.

According to the university, its sustainability-focused research output has grown significantly in recent years. Between 2020 and 2024, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi produced 123 sustainability-related publications, while the proportion of research published in Scopus Q1 journals increased from 22.2 per cent to 63.4 per cent.

Among the projects highlighted by the university is a household waste management study commissioned by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi. The research informed the Abu Dhabi Waste Habits Campaign and supported efforts to encourage more sustainable behaviour among residents.

As part of the project, researchers developed an interactive map identifying 1,500 recycling and donation sites across Abu Dhabi, alongside a behavioural intervention plan that contributed to a national public awareness campaign.

The university’s sustainability research also explores topics including sustainable consumption, digital records management and marine ecosystem health, while examining how digital transformation can support environmental objectives.

Beyond research, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has continued to participate in international sustainability initiatives, including the UN Ocean Conference and Youth COP.

Student-led projects have also contributed to the university’s sustainability efforts. In October 2025, a student team received a national award during Global Food Week for Hayat Garden, a project exploring links between food security and urban agriculture.

Across its campus, the university has introduced measures aimed at reducing environmental impact, including efforts to reduce single-use plastics and expand food waste composting programmes. During Earth Hour in March 2026, the university reported energy savings of 637 kWh and the avoidance of approximately 275 kilograms of carbon emissions.

Sustainability is also embedded within the university’s academic programmes. This includes the recently launched Bachelor in Coastal and Oceanographic Applied Sciences and Technologies, which is designed to equip students with interdisciplinary knowledge spanning environmental science, law and urban planning.

As World Environment Day is observed globally, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi says it remains focused on advancing sustainability through research, education and innovation while supporting the UAE’s broader environmental ambitions.