Integrated sustainability management EMASplus

In line with the whole-institution approach, the KU aims to provide all members of the University community with a sustainable environment in which to study and work. Energy-efficient University buildings, energy conservation, effective resource management, and maximum climate-friendliness, along with comprehensive use of public transportation and consideration of fair trade principles in procurement practices, are areas where universities can set an example in their campus operations.

With regard to these and other topics, the KU identifies with the sustainability management criteria of EMAS^plus. Each year, the “Sustainability & Fair Trade” steering group formulates the measures for the upcoming sustainability program to further advance the KU on its path toward becoming a more sustainable institution. Many members of the KU community actively contribute to shaping the campus and participate in a sustainable campus life. The goals, measures, and achievements within the framework of EMAS^plus and campus management are communicated and recognized both internally and externally. A sustainability report is published annually, presenting the key aspects of sustainability at the KU.

The KU has been EMAS-certified since 2015 and, since 2019, has been the first and so far only university in Germany to be EMAS^plus-certified. The EMAS^plus sustainability management system (https://www.emasplus.org/) is based on the European EMAS system (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme) and expands its focus on environmental aspects to include social and economic perspectives. Environmental management thus becomes an integrated and holistic sustainability management system that incorporates business ethics and corporate responsibility.

EMAS^plus is based on the ISO 26000 standard, which covers the following areas:

• Respect for human rights (e.g. Fairtrade University)
• Good professional practices (particularly occupational safety and health management)
• Fair operating and business practices (e.g. treatment of students and employees, or prevention of corruption)
• Consumer concerns (student support, student participation, study quality monitor)
• Community engagement and development (Third Mission, training of “change agents”)

EMAS^plus has created a framework for the KU to develop as a sustainable organization while recognizing ecological limits and human rights, and has laid the groundwork for improving the common good.