New paths in chemistry: Master's program for sustainable solutions started!

New paths in chemistry: Master's program for sustainable solutions started!

On May 30, 2025, a new master's degree program will start at the Leuphana University of Lüneburg: “Sustainability Science: Resources, Materials and Chemistry (M.Sc.)”. The course is led by Prof. Dr. Dr. Vânia Zuin Zeidler runs and is aimed at students who want to focus on developing sustainable solutions in the fields of chemistry, materials science and energy. In this context, Leuphana University is committed to meeting the challenges of a changing world and using innovative approaches to provide answers to key environmental questions.

The master's degree program is based on a systemic approach and addresses critical connections between chemistry, materials science and renewable and finite resources. A central concern is the holistic view of the life cycles of materials and their resource flows. Here, students learn to design molecules and products and to use materials and energy in the spirit of the circular economy.

Integration of current topics

The curriculum addresses current challenges such as artificial intelligence, planetary boundaries, regenerative practices, future food and diversity. The aim is to train students to become scientists who are in demand not only on the job market in Germany but around the world. For application-oriented experience, students can complete internships to work on solutions to acute problems.

The close cooperation with leading chemical companies, institutions, NGOs and political organizations also promotes the transfer of academic findings into practice. This interdisciplinary approach is of great importance to shape a responsible and sustainable future.

Sustainable chemistry is key

The new master's degree program is in line with the efforts of the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Center (ISC3), which acts as an international competence center for the promotion of sustainable chemistry. According to information from GIZ, the ISC3 aims to support the circular economy and integrate sustainability across the entire life cycle of products. This also includes development, manufacturing, use and recycling and aims to address global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity.

The ISC3 offers space for research and training and embodies the change towards more sustainable chemistry. It has been acting as a network for various actors since 2017 - from political decision-makers and industrial companies to science and civil society. Consulting services and innovation support drive targeted transformation that also takes the UN Sustainable Development Goals into account.

The role of chemistry in sustainable transformation

Chemistry plays a central role in sustainable transformation by addressing challenges such as environmental pollution and health damage, as well as offering possible solutions to challenges such as health, nutrition, climate protection and mobility. However, the application-oriented implementation of sustainable chemistry requires innovative strength and close cooperation between science, business and politics.

The Federal Environment Agency supports this transformation by providing tools and initiatives to minimize the negative environmental impact of the chemical industry. Germany has a special responsibility in this area because the chemical sector plays a crucial role in Europe. The goal is to promote sustainable development while meeting human needs.

Overall, the master's program "Sustainability Science: Resources, Materials and Chemistry (M.Sc.)" at Leuphana University is not only an academic program, but also an important step towards a fairer and more environmentally friendly society.

The initiatives and programs mentioned are examples of the necessary change in the chemical industry and make it clear that education, research and collaboration are essential to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Leuphana University reports that the new master's degree program is being set up. Loud GIZ sustainable chemistry is pursued as a goal to promote circular economy. The Federal Environment Agency actively supports these developments.