Leiden University signs KNAW manifesto: ‘Think green, act green’
Knowledge institutions play a unique role in society and can contribute to a future-proof and sustainable world. That’s why Leiden University has signed the ‘Think green, act green’ manifesto of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). The manifesto is the initiative of The Young Academy and The Green Young Academy, who are calling on universities to embed sustainability in their research, teaching, governance and operations.
The manifesto’s ambitions broadly align with our sustainability ambitions, though interpretations of some points differ in places. By signing the manifesto, Leiden University is confirming its commitment to sustainability and its willingness to work more closely with other knowledge institutions based on shared objectives.
Earlier this year, Leiden University decided it would no longer actively participate in external sustainability rankings. Instead, we have chosen an approach that reflects aspects that are essential to us and the complexity of sustainability at our university. This is why we use our own tools to monitor and report on our progress. The KNAW manifesto will be a valuable addition to these tools. This will help ensure transparency, continuous improvement and alignment with our organisational context, going beyond the quest for a place in the rankings.