Sustainability
Sustainability – a matter of course at FAU
For FAU, sustainability means
… moving and living knowledge to trigger a sustainable transformation. As a place of learning, research, action and social interaction, we are motivated by our belief that it is our responsibility to make a contribution to sustainable development. (FAU Development Plan)
Since 2019, we have placed a considerably stronger focus on advancing sustainability efforts at FAU, for example with the holistic climate action and sustainability concept introduced by our Students’ Representatives. Since then, significant organizational steps have been taken to boost the integration and implementation of sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability report
In June 2023, FAU published its first Sustainability Report documenting its progress, success and challenges in the area of sustainability. This report is aimed at increasing transparency and allows the University to evaluate its performance and to continually improve its strategies. The report gives details on energy consumption, CO2 emissions, social initiatives and other relevant figures.
The online (accessible) version of the FAU Sustainability Report 2022/23 is now available.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at FAU
FAU is guided by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations and integrates these into its mission and activities. We believe it is important to take a holistic approach towards sustainability, considering all three dimensions of “economic”, “environmental” and “social” sustainability.
Our organizational structures for integrating sustainability into University strategy and implementing it in practice.
Sustainability committee
The Sustainability committee was established to strengthen the connection between the cross-sectional topic of sustainability and our strategic P E R O fields of action. This central steering committee assumes a leading role in developing our sustainability strategy and measures for sustainable development at FAU. The committee takes a holistic approach towards sustainability in order to guarantee efficient decision-making and implementation processes.
Sustainability committeeSustainability Officer in the Executive Board
The decision to appoint a Sustainability Officer to the Executive Board underlines just how important the topic is to FAU. This position strengthens the connection between the sustainable initiatives and the Executive Board by forming a direct interface for strategic decisions and measures. The Sustainability Officer works closely together with the Sustainability Committee and supports the implementation of sustainable measures at the highest level of University management.
Sustainability OfficerGreen Office
The Green Office was established in 2020 as a central coordinating body. It acts as a hub for decentralized sustainability projects at FAU. The Green Office plays a decisive role in merging various initiatives, sharing best practices and raising awareness for sustainable action among students, staff and other University members.
Green-Office
Establishing these organizational structures underlines FAU’s commitment to sustainability and creates effective mechanisms for the coordination, implementation and monitoring of sustainable initiatives at the University. These structures allow FAU to successfully pursue its objectives regarding sustainability, strengthening the links between the various stakeholders and levels.