Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences has unveiled its sustainability strategy. It permanently embeds environmental, social and economic responsibility across all areas of the university – from teaching and research to campus operations and engagement with business and society.
“With a view of the Alps, we are creating a green campus that combines tradition with a sustainable future,” is the university’s vision. Sustainability should be understood not as an isolated measure, but as a cross-cutting task.
The strategy is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has been developed since 2023 in workshops involving members of the university community. In the process, existing activities were identified, goals formulated and measures derived.
“With this sustainability strategy, we are making it clear that we view sustainability not merely as an environmental issue, but as a comprehensive vision for the future that encompasses social and economic responsibility,” says President Prof. Heinrich Köster. At the same time, he emphasises that, despite high expectations placed on universities, the implementation of ambitious goals can only take place within the framework of existing financial and structural capabilities.
“The process has shown just how much expertise and commitment there is at the university. It was crucial for us not only to define sustainability strategically, but also to develop it collaboratively and put it into practice,” adds Prof. Dr.-Ing. Isabell Nemeth, who played a key role in developing the sustainability strategy.
Education for sustainable development anchored in six areas of action
The sustainability strategy brings together the university’s objectives in six areas of action: sustainable teaching, research, governance, campus operations, student engagement, and networking and knowledge transfer. It complements the integrated climate protection concept of 2022, which defines specific measures for emissions reduction and energy efficiency. Whilst that concept focuses primarily on operational climate protection measures, the sustainability strategy creates the framework for the university’s holistic development in line with environmental, economic and social goals.
Progress and challenges
Measures already implemented include the installation of new, partly covered bicycle racks, a bike-sharing scheme for students and staff, regular cycling initiatives, the conversion of the university’s vehicle fleet to electric vehicles, and the procurement of climate-neutral electricity. Sustainable construction projects and the expansion of photovoltaic systems are also shaping the university’s development.
A prime example is the construction of the new Technology Park and Student Centre, the university’s largest building project. Funded as part of the Bavarian High-Tech Agenda, the project employs sustainable timber-hybrid construction methods and is designed for highly energy-efficient operation, enabling the building to achieve Gold certification under the ‘Sustainable Building’ assessment system.
The university points out that many sustainability measures can only be implemented gradually, as they are often project-funded and require reliable structural conditions. As a major employer in the Rosenheim region, TH Rosenheim sees itself as having a responsibility to use resources sustainably. At the same time, it makes it clear that ambitious sustainability goals can only be achieved in the long term with reliable political and financial conditions.
Looking ahead
Plans include a certified energy management system in accordance with DIN ISO 50001, further energy-saving measures, and more greening and de-sealing on campus. In addition, the students are planning to set up a Green Office at the university.
Prof. Dr Uwe Strohbeck, as a representative of the university management, is specifically addressing the issue of sustainability. He emphasises: “Sustainability is a key factor for the university’s future – both in teaching and as an attractive place for young people to study and live.”