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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

The 32nd Sustainability Practitioner Programme held in Stellenbosch, South Africa

25 June 2025

25 June 2025 - Against the backdrop of an increasingly complex and fragmented world, the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) convened the 32nd Sustainability Practitioner Programme (SPP) in Stellenbosch, South Africa, from 22-25 June 2025. Hosted over four days, this immersive learning experience brought together sustainability professionals from eight African countries across various sectors and disciplines united by a common imperative: to rethink their roles and how they can deliver the needed transformation in their organisations.

L'Oréal Groupe launches Sustainable Accelerator in partnership with CISL

23 June 2025

23 June 2025 - L'Oréal, the world's leading beauty company, has partnered with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) to launch its Sustainable Innovation Accelerator. The ambitious program, endowed with €100 million investment over 5 years, is designed to address the critical solution gaps within the industry and accelerate the delivery of its 2030 sustainability commitments.

Spotlight publication

International Operations

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