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Xavier University has earned the 11th spot among 63 Philippine universities (Top 17%) in the 2024 UI Green Metric Philippine Schools Ranking. This ranking is a testament to the institution’s commitment to sustainable practices, and its position underscores its dedication to building greener and more eco-friendly school campuses.

In Asia, XU achieved 263rd place among 866 universities (Top 30%) while for the world ranking, Xavier University got 487th place among 1,477 institutions (Top 32%). The UI Green Metric Rankings are shown in this link: https://greenmetric.ui.ac.id/rankings/overall-rankings-2024.

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Xavier University’s Improved Sustainable Practices

Xavier University’s ranking at 11th in the 2024 UI GreenMetric Philippine ranking reflects its constant commitment to increased outstanding performances across six (6) environmental parameters. The university has implemented several new initiatives that contribute to its improved scores, including:

  1. Sustainable Setting and Infrastructure: The campuses of Xavier University feature numerous trees that provide shade for students and plenty of green spaces. The university has also paved parking areas and open spaces to enhance rainwater absorption, effectively reducing campus flooding. Additionally, a series of tree-planting activities, wildling rescue, seedling propagation, and seed collection, specifically native trees and giant bamboos, has been conducted on Xavier University properties in Lumbia, El Gaucho, and Sumilao.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Xavier University has made significant investments in renewable energy sources such as solar-powered street lights around the Pueblo and Manresa Campuses. Additionally, there were a total of 13 solar street lights donated and installed on the Main Campus. XU has prioritized the use of energy-efficient technologies throughout its campus buildings by implementing energy-saving equipment and fixtures such as LED lights and inverter air conditioning units, among others.
  3. Waste Management: The University has adopted comprehensive waste segregation and recycling programs to minimize its environmental impact. These efforts include the operation of a materials recovery and vermicomposting facility, proper e-waste disposal, and a campus-wide initiative to reduce single-use plastics. Sewage management is integrated into the building design standards of the upcoming projects, including ONE GS and Masterson Campus.
  4. Water Conservation: Xavier University has established systems to monitor and reduce water consumption, including the installation of rainwater harvesting initiatives and water-efficient fixtures in campus facilities. The Campus Development Office is undertaking an ongoing construction project including a septic tank with a biogas digester and rainwater catchment. Additionally, water conservation signage has been placed in restrooms and offices.
  5. Sustainable Transportation and Management: The University promotes sustainable transportation options, encouraging the use of mass transit, carpooling, biking, and walking. Centralized administration of university vehicles has helped improve the management of both university cars and fuel usage. Programs are implemented to limit or decrease parking areas on campus such as vehicle access stickers, and vehicle-free lanes, among others.
  6. Sustainability in Education and Research: Beyond its campus operations, Xavier University integrates sustainability into its curriculum and research initiatives. Various academic departments offer courses and projects focused on environmental studies, fostering a culture of sustainability among students. Effective Academic Year 2024-2025, the University offers a New Program on Master of Geomatics for Disaster Risk Reduction. Laudato Si’ on Care for Our Common Home is integrated into the 2-day University Retreat focusing on environmental stewardship and sustainable development. This year, the sustainability-related start-ups were limited, and the institutional sustainability report is still in the planning phase.

01162025.Web GCA 2NSTP students leading an awareness campaign on solid waste management to promote environmental responsibility
Photo Credit: National Service Training Program (NSTP) & XU UNITASS Council

Xavier University is committed to enhancing the sustainability of its five campuses—main, Pueblo, Manresa, El Gaucho, Macasandig, and Jasaan—by exploring new ways to become greener. The university aims to make significant progress in reducing its environmental impact, recognizing that the journey toward sustainability is ongoing. Xavier University is determined to lead by example, fostering a campus and community that prioritizes environmental stewardship at every level. As the world grapples with increasing environmental challenges, Xavier University, alongside other sustainable schools, strives to advance the future of sustainable education and create a positive, lasting impact on our shared planet. This is central to XU’s 7-year journey to becoming a Laudato Si University.

01162025.Web GCA 4Photo Credit: Dr Ann Charlette A Cabana

01162025.Web GCA 5Campus area covered with planted vegetation

Xavier University calls every member of the university community: student, faculty, staff, administrator, and Jesuits and its collaborators: parents, alumni, benefactors, and friends to generously and courageously share in the continuing task of making our school greener and more sustainable.