Sustainability in terms of environment and social matters is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental pollution, food insecurity and resource depletion threaten the welfare of societies around the world and intensify social disparities. Sustainability is therefore one of the major topics that will shape future research, education and innovations. That is why it concerns the University’s strategic development at various levels. 

The university's understanding of sustainability: value-based, future-oriented, and planetary

Scientific findings provide us with the basis for informed decisions. Making these decisions in the spirit of sustainability is a value judgment—comparable to a commitment to democracy or equal treatment for all people. At the University of Cologne, we therefore understand sustainability as value-based, future-oriented, and planetary: in all areas of our work, we strive to align our actions with the planetary limits of our Earth. This is necessary for the well-being of all life on our planet – here and now, as well as for future generations and especially in endangered regions. Intact ecological foundations are a prerequisite for a socially just and livable future. In order to fulfill our role in society, we at the University of Cologne act with future-oriented planetary responsibility. 

The university's vision for sustainability: a shared culture of sustainability in practice

Our goal at the University of Cologne is to promote a shared culture of sustainability in practice—this is the only way to achieve transformation. This culture is created in everyday life: wherever we put sustainability into practice in our decisions, our behavior, and our interactions with one another. Sustainability in practice can only succeed as a collaborative process. It arises through the interaction of all university members and cooperation with our partners worldwide. Sustainability can only be achieved if we live it together. It requires conscious action on our part – day after day.

The mission: anchoring sustainability in all areas

The University of Cologne's mission is to anchor a consistent commitment to sustainability in the sense of a “whole institution approach” in its core areas of activity: research, teaching and studies, engagement and transfer, as well as in the organization and operation of the campus. Corresponding strategic goals with specific and overarching measures are summarized in a university-wide sustainability strategy.