STT Recommendations for the Sustainability Strategy

On the recommendation of the Research and Strategy Commission (FosKom), the Rectorate commissioned the HCE in October 2023 to coordinate a participatory process for developing recommendations for a university-wide sustainability strategy. The newly established Vice Rectorate for Quality Development and Sustainability closely accompanied the strategy process and maintained close communication with the process leadership. The goal of the process was to ensure broad participation of internal university stakeholders by involving all university status groups as comprehensively as possible. To this end, the Sustainability Think Tank (STT) was established, following a holistic approach. The STT working groups (AGs) addressed key areas of action, including research, teaching, communication and transfer, operations, and research operations. Each of these AGs discussed and developed various proposals for action. In December 2024, the recommendations were presented to the Rectorate. Based on these recommendations, Heidelberg University’s sustainability strategy is now being developed, which is set to be adopted by the Rectorate and the Senate in the summer semester 2025. 

The STT emphasizes that the document should remain a "living" document and be continuously developed in the future. This would allow for flexible responses to new scientific findings, societal developments, and emerging challenges, enabling continuous improvements and ensuring long-term relevance and effectiveness. Proposals for action can still be submitted via the STT website.