Sustainability as a guiding profile: University of Augsburg adopts new strategy
In December 2024, the Extended Executive Board of the University adopted the new sustainability strategy, thereby taking an important step towards promoting sustainable action at all levels. “In line with our mission statement Scientia et Conscientia, it pursues the goal of contributing to solving global challenges through research, education and the campus management,” says President Prof. Dr. Sabine Doering-Manteuffel. The strategy is based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations and is divided into four central fields of action: governance and transfer, research, education and campus life and operations. “With the Green Office, a central coordination office has been set up that specifically strengthens the topic of sustainability and promotes cooperation across faculties and disciplines,” says Prof. Dr. Axel Tuma, representative for the green transformation at the university. Close networking with local and global partners should support the transfer of knowledge relevant to sustainability. Participatory formats enable all members of the university to be actively involved in the process. The university attaches particular importance to interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research on sustainability topics. With focal points such as climate protection, environmental research and health sciences, it is one of the leading research institutions in Bavaria. Research on sustainable topics is to be further promoted and made more visible. Sustainability is already an integral part of the curriculum at most faculties. The aim is to equip students with the necessary skills to develop and implement sustainable solutions. Interdisciplinary formats such as research-based learning are promoted and further education opportunities offer an in-depth exploration of sustainability topics. The university is also striving to make its own infrastructure more sustainable. By 2028, it plans to achieve balance sheet greenhouse gas neutrality in Scope 1 (direct emissions from the university) and Scope 2 (emissions from purchased energy such as electricity, heating or cooling). It is also focusing on renewable energies and sustainable mobility concepts. Measures such as biodiversity strategies and resource-conserving waste management promote responsible action in everyday university life. The sustainability strategy defines goals and promotes cooperation between all stakeholders. It serves as a guideline for sustainable development and invites university members to actively contribute to change. Further information on the strategy will be published shortly on the university's website.
Download the Sustainability Strategy
Governance & transfer: strategically embedding sustainability
Research: developing sustainable solutions
Education: Strengthening education for sustainable development
Campus life & operations: driving forward the green transformation