Sustainability at the HNEE

HNEE stands for sustainability in practice and sustainability management that sets standards. We understand and live → sustainability as a cross-cutting issue that is reflected in research, teaching, administration and infrastructure. Of course, this cannot be achieved overnight (see → Sustainability report). It requires a collaborative, holistic approach from within the organisation in order to have an external impact. We understand sustainable development as a process that requires effective design methods as well as committed and well-trained people who identify potential companions and multipliers and jointly initiate effective change processes. In doing so, we take on a proactive role as a sustainability pioneer in society and the university landscape.

Our EMAS award-winning environmental management system, sustainable procurement and sustainable event management have been established and are constantly being optimised.

Working groups for sustainable development promote exchange and collaboration across disciplines and drive innovative ideas forward. This practised sustainability extends beyond everyday campus life.

Together with Studierendenwerk Frankfurt/Oder, HNEE is constantly developing its canteens in terms of sustainability. In the → Sustainability Canteen Working Group, students and staff are working to strengthen environmentally friendly, climate-friendly and health-promoting services. In 2022, the HNEE canteens were recognised as "Planetary Health Canteens" by the NGO ProVeg. Vegan and vegetarian dishes, fresh fruit and vegetables and a salad bar are available every day. Meat dishes are only on the menu two days a week. Many products such as coffee, rice, beef and potatoes are 100% organic, and fair trade and regional foods are also favoured. The annual climate meal competition, in which sustainable recipe ideas from students are included in the regular menus, is particularly popular. The reusable cup deposit system is also part of the commitment to a resource-conserving canteen.

HNEE pursues clear sustainability goals in its procurement, which are set out in a guideline on sustainable procurement. In addition to the legal requirements, attention is paid to criteria such as resource conservation, energy efficiency, waste avoidance and short transport routes. All procurement processes - whether centralised or decentralised - are based on a balance between the environment, social responsibility and economic efficiency (see → Sustainable procurement at HNEE). One example of good practice is the tender for recycled printer paper, which was highlighted as an example of best practice by the Federal Environment Agency.

The → Network for Diversity and Equal Opportunities at HNEE brings together representatives and coordinators to actively participate in the implementation of the → Gender Equality Concept and the → Anti-Racism Concept. The aim is to create a respectful, open and inclusive university environment in which diversity is lived and promoted. Together with students, employees and external partners, the network is committed to participation, visibility and equal opportunities - regardless of gender, origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation. The aim is to break down barriers, make diversity visible as a strength and enable participation.

HNEE offers comprehensive support for students and staff with family responsibilities, including parent-child rooms on the city and forest campuses, financial assistance and flexible working and study conditions. The university also promotes health and well-being through the Healthy University Working Group, which develops and implements measures to promote health. Further information can be found on the → Family-friendly university and → Healthy university working group pages.