About us
Our vision is a net-zero emissions future supported by a sustainable global economic and financial system – a healthy planet and a more prosperous, fairer world. We help to achieve that vision through our world-leading research, teaching and partnerships.
- Our research delivers business-focused solutions to stabilise the climate and protect our natural world, by shifting the global economic and financial system to sustainability.
- Education is at the heart of our mission – we equip the next generation through undergraduate and graduate teaching, and empower business leaders through executive education.
- We host public lectures and academic conferences, and convene business, finance and enterprise partners from around the world.
Who we are
The Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment was established in 2008 through the generosity of Sir Martin and Lady Elise Smith, and their family. We believe that to address climate change and environmental sustainability, it is essential to bring business into the conversation.
Our work draws on our multi-disciplinary researchers who collaborate with like-minded academics from across our home institution, the University of Oxford. A number of our staff hold joint appointments or are affiliated with other parts of the university including at the School of Geography and Environment, the Saïd Business School, the Institute of New Economic Thinking, the Economics department, the Law faculty, and the Oxford Martin School.
We are based at the School of Geography and the Environment. This gives us invaluable access to the department's Environmental Change Institute and the Transport Studies Unit, as well as their expertise in delivering outstanding teaching.
Find out more
- Read about our Founders
- Take a look at our research themes: Biodiversity, Climate, Energy, Food, Regenerative economy and Water
- Find an executive education course
Our MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment (MSEE) aims to address two fundamental challenges of our time: making the transition to a zero-carbon and environmentally sustainable economic model, and simultaneously enabling sustainable development for everyone, poor and rich alike.
Latest news
A 7-Step guide to help companies deliver a just transition
Alexis McGivern and Dr Matilda Becker set out 7 steps companies can follow to help themselves, and the world, transition to a sustainable future in a way that is fair and equitable.
Breaking barriers: two Smith School alumni discuss their path to Oxford
Smith School MSc alumni Aurona Sarker and Lewis Ireland discuss how they overcame hardships and social barriers to study our MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment.
Leading UK scientists urge Prime Minister to place nature at the centre of economic and climate policy
On 9 June 2025, a group of over 35 senior UK academics, coordinated by NbSI Director, Nathalie Seddon—drawn from ecology, economics, public health and the social sciences—delivered an open letter to the Prime Minister.