• A positive impact on the transition to a sustainable society

     We develop excellent and relevant knowledge, collaborating with citizens, politicians, policy makers, NGOs and firms to learn from each other and influence decision-making.
    Collaborate
  • Photos of sprouting shoots

    Cutting edge interdisciplinary research

     Our signature cross-topical themes—governance, modelling and transitions—cover central aspects of sustainability research and policy. Our five sustainability challenges, which include circular economy, energy, food, land and water, highlight our research strengths.
    Learn more

  • Five research sections

     Our 260 researchers have a home in one of five research sections: Environmental Governance, Environmental Sciences, Innovation Studies, Energy & Resources and the Urban Futures Studio. Together we are the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development.
    Explore
  • Come and study Global Sustainability Science!

    Transformative education

     Society faces a multitude of complex sustainability challenges which require new ways of thinking and doing. We educate the change agents of the future through our two Bachelor's and six Master's programmes.
    Learn more

Explore our research