Mission statement and the guiding principles of sustainability

In recognition of the increasing hazards and risks of climate change impacts, environmental pollution and uncontrolled resource consumption, universities have a decisive role to play as "Agents of Change". They lay the foundation for a transition towards sustainability by moving evidence-based knowledge into action and bringing together different types of stakeholders and various actors.

Concern for sustainability and environmental and climate protection has a long tradition at Leibniz University Hannover:

1993: The first designated Environmental Protection Officer was appointed
Since 1998: Environmental Reports are published every three years
2011: Adoption of Environmental Guidelines
2015: Development of an Integrated Climate Protection Concept
2017: Adoption of the Integrated Climate Protection Concept featuring a comprehensive catalogue of measures focusing on eight main fields of action
2019: Fridays for Future movement, creation of various initiative groups
End of 2019: The Senate Sustainability Working Group (WG) was established
2020: Development of a new Guideline on Climate and Environmental Protection with a commitment to climate neutrality by 2031
January 2021: The University Governing Board’s Vice President for International Affairs assumes additional responsibility for sustainability management
May 2021: Foundation of the Green Office
2023: Publication of an updated and expanded Integrated Climate Protection Concept
2024: Joining the Insect Alliance and Climate Neutral Alliance
2024-2025: Personnel expansion of the Green Office through mobility management, third-party funded projects, and energy cost budgeting