The University of the Arts London (UAL) received the Queen's Anniversary Prize for excellence in higher and continuing education in recognition of its outstanding role in influencing perceptions and actions towards environmental and social sustainability in the global fashion system.

The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes, awarded every two years, recognize the work carried out by the UK’s universities and colleges that delivers real benefit to the wider world through education, and training and showcases quality and innovation.

The honor marks over two decades of work across various colleges and research centers at UAL to shape the fashion industry of the future, enabling everyone from designers to manufacturers and suppliers to thrive amidst the challenges of the twenty-first century through new thinking and transformation.

In a release, president and vice-chancellor of UAL, James Purnell, said: "At UAL we believe that the world needs creativity, and this is particularly evident when it comes to fashion and sustainability. Through our research and partnerships, and by targeting the sectors that matter, we can help solve pressing societal issues, and in doing so create a better future for all. This award acknowledges the power of working together to transform the global fashion industry for the planet and people alike."

"I’m delighted for our staff, students, and alumni that our excellence in environmental and social sustainability in fashion has been recognized in this way," added chief social purpose officer of UAL, Polly Mackenzie. "By bridging the gap between academia and the fashion sector through our teaching, research, and industry partnerships, we have demonstrated a long track record of using creative education as a tool for positive social and environmental impact, showing that caring for others and the planet is at the core of who we are. We are incredibly proud of every individual and team across UAL who has contributed to this vital work."

UAL’s Centre for Sustainable Fashion, based at the London College of Fashion (LCF), has shaped the discourse in fashion and sustainability for over 15 years. It has created internationally acclaimed research with some of the world’s leading designers including Alexander McQueen and Gucci, set agendas in government including contributing to work around Human Trafficking and Modern Slavery, trained over 3000+ industry professionals, and has pioneered world-relevant curriculum not only with students across UAL but also through open-source courses for thousands of people worldwide.