Whole-institution approach
The University of Innsbruck understands sustainability as a holistic concept that encompasses various dimensions (ecological, economic, social, cultural). As shown in Figure 1, the University pursues a holistic, so-called "Whole-institution approach" approach to the implementation of sustainability. Such a comprehensive and whole-institutional approach focuses on the key areas, i.e. fields of action, of the university. This also makes it clear that sustainability at universities cannot be viewed in isolation and dealt with by individual actors. Rather, when implementing sustainability in one field of action, it is important to always consider cross-connections to others and to recognise that it requires the cooperation of very different university groups of people and decision-makers. In other words, a diverse team is needed. This is essential, not least because sustainability can be understood differently depending on the department - joint negotiation processes are therefore also an inherent part of implementing sustainability.
As part of its sustainability strategy, the University of Innsbruck is focussing on the following fields of action:
- Governance and organisational culture: The anchoring of sustainability is supported by the management level and the creation of structural framework conditions. This also includes promoting a culture of participation and transparency.
- Education: Addressing the content of sustainability in teaching and in further and continuing education is a key building block. Equally central is how learning spaces are designed and how courses are methodically and didactically implemented.
- Research: In addition to basic research, transdisciplinary and transformative research is of particular importance in order to contribute as directly as possible to overcoming global challenges. It is also important to strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation and to organise research processes sustainably.
- Social dialogue: The university promotes dialogue and cooperation with society in order to jointly develop sustainable solutions and raise awareness of sustainability.
- Operations: A sustainable university uses resources efficiently, introduces environmentally friendly practices and is itself a role model for the promotion of biodiversity.
- Inter-university cooperation: Cooperation with other universities and institutions is essential in order to make a joint contribution to overcoming the challenges of the 21st century and to learn from and with each other.