We cannot achieve social impact if we do not consider the economic and environmental consequences of those choices. All in all, we have asked ourselves the question: what role do we want to take on in society?
The answer is clear: we contribute to a sustainable society through critical and focused thinking, education and action. We embrace the concept of sustainable development as a global footprint for dignity, peace and prosperity for humanity and the planet, now and in the future. We want to contribute to a sustainable society through critical and focused thinking, teaching and action in research, education and business, and within our partnerships.
We want to contribute to addressing and solving the major challenges facing society, as outlined in the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a university, we can use our ability to invest and innovate to achieve the SDGs. Through our activities, we contribute not only to the overall goal, but also to specific SDGs. Careful consideration of the goals we select will make our contribution more meaningful.
We believe it is important to support our students, faculties and community in taking action on sustainability. We do this on the basis of sincere values that we establish and act upon. Not only on a personal level, but also in our dealings with others; not only now, but also in the future. We want to create awareness and knowledge in the field of sustainability and challenge our students to think critically, the Erasmian way. This includes turning knowledge into action, in the form of innovations and solutions for a sustainable way of life.
Sustainability is a fundamental cornerstone of and important prerequisite for the development of the campus and its facilities: our buildings on campus, the food that is sold and served at the university, the design of the working environment and outdoor spaces.