Sustainable Development Goals are part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This is the world’s shared plan to make life better for people and the planet by the year 2030.

The SDGs have been designed to:

• improve livelihoods
• end extreme poverty
• reduce inequality
• protect the environment
• improve economic growth
  

At the same time, they aim to tackle pressing global concerns like conflict, climate change and biodiversity loss, and protect the Earth and its resources for future generations.

The 17 Goals are all interconnected and interdependent so they shouldn’t be viewed in isolation. To make sure everyone benefits fairly, it’s important that we tackle them all.

Read more about SDGs.

Everyone’s contribution is vital to make sure that solutions are inclusive, just and lasting. For example, you can:

• use your voice to share your knowledge and encourage others to be more sustainable
  
• take action at work or where you study by following sustainable working practices, supporting wellbeing, and influencing those around you
• change your personal behaviours by using less energy, travelling by low-carbon methods, buying and wasting less, and eating more plant-based foods
• be an active citizen by campaigning for change, voting in elections, spending wisely and ethically, and engaging with your community
• care for nature by creating more green spaces, and protecting plants, water, habitats and wildlife
• support the sustainability of people by committing to safe working environments, fair pay, and equal and inclusive health, wellbeing and education
  
• share and increase your knowledge through education and research, and talking to others about living sustainably
  

Read the Institute for Policy Research’s blog on how to talk to your friends about climate action.

Listen to the student sustainability podcast to hear what our students have done and how you can get involved.