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Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL)

Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) 

We are an impact-led institute within the University of Cambridge that activates leadership globally to transform economies for people, nature and climate. Through our global network and hubs in Cambridge, Cape Town and Brussels, we work with leaders and innovators across business, finance and government to accelerate action for a sustainable future.  

Trusted since 1988 for our rigour and pioneering commitment to learning and collaboration, we create safe spaces to challenge and support those with the power to act. 

 

Business Sustainability Management online short course

For professionals wanting to act as an agent for positive change and lead sustainability across an organisation.

Find out more about Business Sustainability Management

 

Our impact

CISL’s priority impact areas for systemic transformation – Future Place, Future Economy and Future Lives - pave the way for bold action and regenerative leadership for people, nature and climate.  

Find out more about our impact

 

Our global Network

Our global network of over 30,000 leaders and innovators takes individual, collaborative and collective action to accelerate transformation for sustainable societies and economies.  

Read more about our global network

 

News and resources

News on CISL's latest work and insights on approaches that have the potential to deliver transformational change towards a sustainable economy.

Visit the news and resources section

 

Who we work with and why

Our multi-stakeholder approach engages influential individuals alongside businesses, governments, financial institutions and civil society representatives, focusing on their shared potential to rewire economic, social and environmental systems.

Find out who we work with

 

Latest news

New CISL playbook for businesses aims to accelerate a market-wide sustainable transition 

4 April 2025

7 April 2025 - A new report from the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Sustainability Leadership sets out a pathway for the private sector to proactively respond to the current volatile geopolitical context while continuing sustainability efforts. The Competing in the Age of Disruption report, co-written by CISL’s...

CISL’s Entopia Building shortlisted for RIBA award

24 March 2025

24 March 2025 – The Cambridge headquarters of the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, the Entopia Building, is among 23 projects nominated for the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) East Awards 2025.

International Operations

We have offices in Cambridge, Brussels and South Africa, and delivery partners in Beijing, Melbourne and the UAE.