Radboud University contributes to a healthy, free world with equal opportunities for all. Sustainability is one of the key themes of our ‘Connected for Impact’ strategy, and we give sustainability a prominent place in our teaching, research and operations.
We are currently working on our new sustainability policy, with a duration of 2026-2031. Its ESG objectives (regarding education, research, impact, and operations) stem from our Double Materiality Assessment (2025) and our internal strategy process, which was completed in February 2026. The new policy is scheduled to be adopted before the summer of 2026; until then, we will operate under the current 2021-2025 policy.
We create a healthy environment for our staff and students, both on our campus and in the chain. We are committed to making people and the planet healthier. We achieve this by contributing to the development of knowledge and solutions through scientific research, for example in the field of biodiversity. We apply this knowledge on our own green campus and in the physical design of our buildings, and through healthy lifestyle programmes and the activities of the Radboud Sports Centre.
We care about clean air and a healthy climate. We work hard to cut our carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions by finding new ways to save energy in our campus buildings and in our business processes, and by making those buildings and processes more sustainable. Through scientific research we contribute insights and solutions to complex and interdisciplinary climate issues. As a result, our staff and students play their part in the energy transition within their own spheres of influence.
We minimise the use of primary raw materials and avoid wasting materials and food wherever possible. Through our research and education, we develop and share knowledge about circular and bio-based solutions and the associated systems change. On campus, we are committed to circular procurement, reusing materials and minimising waste. We see waste as a raw material for new innovative applications. To this end, we collaborate with partners throughout the chain: from suppliers and users to waste processors. Thanks to our size, we can make a real difference when it comes to making chains more sustainable.
We seek to create sustainable supply chains by purchasing in a socially responsible way. We work with suppliers who tackle wrongdoings and pay a fair price. We have an open and accessible campus and encourage encounters within our buildings. We value the diversity of our students and staff and welcome people from all backgrounds, countries and cultures. We engage with people who have a disadvantage on the labour market, and strive for gender equality. Our research and education focus on issues related to social inequality, gender, diversity and sustainable livelihoods.
Radboud University is committed to making an impact at regional and international level. As a university, we are at the heart of society. Our immediate surroundings – the city, province, border region – are home to many companies, educational institutions and organisations with which we establish valuable relationships. We collaborate on knowledge development, accessibility and innovation, actively identifying local issues to which we can make a meaningful contribution. Below is a selection of our partners and the partnerships we are involved in: