Sustainability Sustainability Strategy
Heidelberg University wants to significantly expand its engagement in the field of sustainability. To this end, the Rectorate has adopted a comprehensive sustainability strategy for the period 2026 to 2031. The strategy identifies the following key fields of action with a view to integrating sustainability principles into all areas of the university in future: research, teaching, operations and research operations, as well as transfer and communication.
Comprehensive package of measures
Through the measures adopted, the University aims to expand the contribution of research to sustainable development, strengthen the positive impacts on student life, teaching and knowledge transfer, and reduce its environmental footprint. The implementation of these measures is coordinated by the University’s freshly constituted Sustainability Office, which is based at the Heidelberg Center for the Environment (HCE). The Office consists of the Manager and sub-project leaders for the various key fields of action.
The strategy should be understood as a long-term process that is supported and shaped by many members of the University. It is to be regularly reviewed, adapted and taken further. A Sustainability Board consisting of internal and external experts is accompanying its implementation and continuing development as an advisory body.
Sustainability Think Tank
The strategy evolved out of a broad-based participatory process involving students, teachers, researchers and a large number of the administrative staff.
Sustainability Idea Box
Do you have an idea for how Heidelberg University can become more sustainable?
Then feel free to send us your idea at merz@hce.uni-heidelberg.de, and we’ll help bring it to life!