Universities and cities: Together for a sustainable future!

Universities and cities: Together for a sustainable future!

On May 15th, a central discussion event on the topic of sustainability will take place in the auditorium of the Old University in Heidelberg. The event, titled “From Advocacy to Action: How can Universities and Cities Work Together to Achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals?” is a cooperation between Heidelberg University and the 4EU+ European University Alliance. Scientists from renowned universities, including Copenhagen and Geneva, will take part in the event, which begins at 5:30 p.m. and is also available as a live stream. Prior registration is required for both on-site and online participation uni-heidelberg.de reported.

The event aims to discuss innovative approaches to implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It reflects the important roles that universities and cities play in achieving these goals, especially in times of global crises and social upheaval.

The contribution of the 4EU+ Alliance

The 4EU+ alliance, which includes seven research-intensive universities, aims to create synergies in teaching, research and administration. The member universities, such as the Sorbonne, the University of Milan and the University of Warsaw, are committed to different thematic priorities, which include, among others, crucial challenges such as urban health, digitization and environmental transitions. Particular attention is paid to Flagship 1, which deals with health-conscious urban living spaces ( geog.uni-heidelberg.de ).

In this context, medical, environmental and social science experts cooperate to increase the well-being of citizens. By harmonizing geography curricula, students are encouraged to work internationally and gain practical experience at the alliance's partner universities.

Sustainability goals and local implementation

The 2030 Agenda includes 17 globally defined sustainability goals (SDGs) that are of central importance for cities worldwide. In Germany, for example through the German Sustainability Strategy and the NRW Sustainability Strategy, the local level is increasingly coming into focus. The motto “Think globally, act locally” serves as a guide for local actors who play a key role in advancing these goals neu.essen.de highlights.

The city of Essen is an example of effective local measures to implement the sustainability strategy. In 2019, the city council adopted a model resolution, and in September 2021 a comprehensive sustainability strategy was adopted, consisting of five thematic areas. The city's first sustainability report will be published in December 2024 to document the progress of these initiatives.

The discussion event in Heidelberg offers an important platform to promote the networking of science and local politics and to develop innovative solutions that can have an impact on both a local and global level.