We are very happy to announce that we will finally welcome higher education institutions and organizations from across The Netherlands on the 11th of October 2024 at Erasmus University Rotterdam. Together, we’ll reimagine the role of universities in shaping a just and sustainable society and foster a collaborative movement within Dutch academia. Regardless of our fields of study or research, the desire to leave behind a thriving planet for future generations unites us all.
Currently, however, the traditional university setup falls short in addressing the big sustainability challenges we face. Bound by disciplinary lines and linear knowledge transfer, collaboration and innovation suffer.
But universities have the potential to lead the way towards sustainability. Across the Netherlands, universities (of applied sciences) are beginning to integrate sustainability into their operations, research, and education. Yet, there's more to be done. How can we further enhance these efforts and amplify each other's impact?
Now is the time for us to work together
The EUR Sustainability Summit 2024 invites students and staff from the EUR community, as well as peers from other higher education institutions across the Netherlands, to come together, share insights, and collectively devise common strategies.
Your voice is crucial now more than ever
After the postponement in May due to the closing of the campus facilities, we felt that, more than ever, participation and involvement will be central in facing the current challenges that society is facing. For this reason, the Summit aims to ensure everyone is represented – students, staff, researchers – offering workshops and hands-on sessions where active participation in decision-making is encouraged.
The EUR Sustainability Summit 2024 is open to everyone, for free! The event will unite researchers, educators, and support staff from all HE institutions in the Netherlands to discuss sustainability, climate change, social challenges, and the future of academia. This event will strengthen the EUR's collaboration with universities, applied universities, and knowledge institutions by connecting people and building coalitions for joint projects. The Summit will support various sustainability initiatives and present a unified voice to influence the government, funders, and other stakeholders. All the activities will be tailored to give a concrete voice and space for our community to express, create and decide about the future of sustainability.
- Thematic workshops, discussions and talks on the future of academia linked to sustainability and innovation. Actions steps will be taken to keep nurturing the Summit’s results.
- Join the announcement of new interuniversity initiatives and discover the role you can have.
- Discover the Sustainability Fair, a new update of the Summit! Several booths will be there presenting projects and initiatives revolving around sustainability in academia across the country. A perfect occasion to check what’s happening around you and explore possible opportunities.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9.00 - 9.30 hrs | Welcome with coffee, tea and music |
| 9.30 hrs | Welcome speech by organizers: goals of the day and logistics |
| 9.45 hrs | Erasmus University Rotterdam Executive Board speech |
| 10.00 hrs | Keynote: the importance of new education and research for a thriving sustainable future |
| 10.20 hrs | Panel discussion: science, climate and future |
| 11.00 - 11.30 hrs | Break snacks and drinks |
| 11.30 - 13.00 hrs | 'Towards a Communiqué for Universities in Sustainability Transition' disciplines workshops:
|
| 13.00 - 14.00 hrs | Networking lunch break + Sustainability Future Fair Opening |
| 14.00 - 15.00 hrs | 'From the Communique’ to Action: Presenting 4 Interuniversity Sustainability Initiatives' |
| 15.00 - 16.00 hrs | Thematic workshops
|
| 16.00 - 16.45 hrs | Sustainability Future Fair |
| 16.45 - 17.00 hrs | Closing speech + artistic performance |
| 17.00 - 18.00 hrs | Aperitif + Sustainability Future Fair |
Please use the form below to register for the event. Make sure to check your email for regular updates on programme, speakers and sessions.
We encourage you to contemplate which workshops you'd like to attend during the Summit beforehand. Upon arrival at the welcome desk on the respective day of the Summit, you can enroll in your preferred workshop.
P.S. Workshops spots are limited, so please consider other options beside your preferred one.
The EUR Sustainability Summit is open to all! Don't forget to share the registration link with everyone interested in attending.
The Summit will be held at the Erasmus University campus Woudestein. Remember to check this page and your email for updates on the location!
If you are interested in showcasing your project, idea or initiative related to sustainability, please take a look at the guide you will find attached. Feel free to reach out at sustainabilitysummit@eur.nl for any question.
Registration form
- More information
Would you like to know more about the summit? If you are curious about the summit and other sustainability initiatives, please reach out via sustainabilitysummit@eur.nl.