Research

Embedding Sustainability in UU education

A university-wide research project by the SEE community

How can sustainability be meaningfully embedded across all educational programs at Utrecht University?

This question is at the heart of a research project initiated by our Sustainability Education & Engagement Community. As sustainability becomes an increasingly urgent societal challenge, it is essential that higher education equips students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to contribute to a just and sustainable future. Sustainability is inherently interdisciplinary — it intersects with climate science, social equity, economics, and beyond. Embedding it throughout UU’s curricula is not only necessary, but also an opportunity for transformative education.

Led by Tim Stevens, this project explores how sustainability is currently integrated into UU education, and how this integration can be strengthened. It brings together students and educators from across faculties to investigate practical, inclusive, and innovative approaches to sustainability in teaching and learning. Insights from this project will also inform university policy — with the goal of anchoring sustainability education structurally across UU.

By involving diverse perspectives, the project aims to support a university-wide shift towards sustainability as a foundational theme in education — one that empowers all members of the academic community to take part in shaping a better future.

Get involved

Research project: embedding sustainability in education at UU

Want to know more about the project but not a UU student or employee? Get in contact by e-mailing dr. Tim Stevens: t.m.stevens@uu.nl