The imperative to combat climate change has pushed higher education institutions to embrace social responsibility and play a significant role in addressing global challenges. European business schools, recognized as hubs of innovation and thought leadership, are stepping up to the plate. Through a combination of research, education, and innovative sustainability initiatives, these institutions are working collectively to champion the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A remarkable example of this commitment is the collaborative effort known as INNOVA Europe. Pioneered by three prestigious European business schools – EDHEC Business School, ESMT Berlin, and POLIMI Graduate School of Management – INNOVA Europe is a competition designed to confront societal, economic, and environmental issues head-on. Students from various academic levels are invited to devise innovative solutions addressing the specific challenges outlined in the UN SDGs. The competition serves as a testament to the power of collective action in propelling sustainable innovation.
Guided by the ethos of being ‘made for doers,’ Hult International Business School is redefining business education by infusing sustainability throughout its curriculum. Recognizing the interconnectedness of global challenges, Hult’s business courses seamlessly integrate sustainability, enabling students to engage with pressing political, economic, and environmental issues. The launch of Hult Impact Research and the creation of the Sustainability Lab underscore the institution’s commitment to driving innovation and engagement around societal issues.
EHL Hospitality Business School is pioneering a sustainable campus revolution in Lausanne. The new campus, launched in 2022 and certified as Minergie-P©, exemplifies the fusion of sustainability and technology. Harnessing renewable energy sources, the campus boasts 80% electricity and heating powered by renewables. The lush campus landscape, adorned with over 300 trees and 5,500 local shrubs, reflects EHL’s dedication to creating an eco-friendly educational environment.
ESMT Berlin is steering its students towards a more sustainable future through the FUTURE Institute for Sustainable Transformation. Established in partnership with non-profit Werte-Stiftung and innovation platform Futury, the institute aims to drive innovative solutions that positively impact disadvantaged communities and the environment. By bolstering partnerships and faculty expertise, ESMT Berlin envisions creating a substantial sustainable impact across industries.
Climate change’s disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities is a stark reality. To address this, the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management introduced the Global Shield Solutions Platform in June 2023. This groundbreaking initiative extends financial protection against climate risks to vulnerable countries. By providing funding for climate and disaster risk finance solutions, the platform strives to ensure comprehensive support in the face of climate-induced challenges.
Vlerick Business School’s recent introduction of a sustainability short program underscores the importance of embedding environmental, social, and corporate governance factors into business strategies. This online program equips individuals with the tools to develop and implement sustainable strategies in their organizations, fostering positive impact, engagement, and innovation.
Imperial College Business School’s Leonardo Centre on Business for Society is advancing the understanding of climate change’s impact through data. The GOLDEN dataset, a comprehensive digital compilation of sustainability initiatives categorized by the UN SDGs, demonstrates the institution’s commitment to driving informed decision-making and innovation.
The world stands at a crossroads, facing unprecedented environmental threats. European business schools are answering this call with vigor and innovation. While these initiatives are undoubtedly impactful, they represent only a fraction of what is required. The urgency of the climate crisis demands a holistic and united effort across sectors, nations, and educational institutions. It is imperative that we harness the collaborative spirit demonstrated by these business schools to forge a sustainable path forward. As students, educators, and global citizens, we must recognize the power of our actions and work collectively to build a world that thrives in harmony with nature.