Guidelines of the BOKU Sustainability Strategy

Adopted by the Rectorate in April 2014

Assume Responsibility

Universities have a special responsibility in the journey towards a more sustainable world. They contribute to the development of this concept and act as pioneers and catalysts for ideas and strategies for sustainable development in society. BOKU is committed to this responsibility with increased dedication.

Embed Sustainability in All Areas 

At BOKU, sustainability means embedding this guiding principle in all areas of its activities, including research, teaching, daily operations (environmental management, social responsibility), organizational culture, strategic matters, and the interaction between BOKU and society (knowledge transfer, societal discourse, public relations).

Broad-Based Sustainability: Involve BOKU Members 

BOKU staff from research, teaching, and administration, as well as BOKU students, form the foundation of BOKU's sustainability efforts. Sustainability can only become a key pillar of BOKU with their help. BOKU alumni and the broader BOKU community are also invited to participate. BOKU takes these suggestions and ideas seriously and incorporates them into implementation whenever possible.

Implement Sustainability: Concrete Goals and Feasible Measures 

A sustainability strategy must be measured by concrete activities and successes. Therefore, the phased implementation of the goals and measures developed within the sustainability strategy is a central part of the strategy. Short-, medium-, and long-term measures are detailed in a project and implementation plan, which describes the measures, defines responsibilities, and sets timelines.

Expand, Reflect, and Update Sustainability

 In 2013 and 2014, the initial goals and measures of the BOKU sustainability strategy were developed through a broad participatory process. This process is subject to periodic reassessment, revision, and supplementation to account for current developments and improved opportunities for expanding sustainability activities. Therefore, the implementation work is also subject to continuous reflection.