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From CSR to Impact; How to Integrate CSR in a University Strategy Maters, Erna; Luttik, Joke
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 3, No 2: December 2023
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2023.20491

Abstract

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda, which was drawn up in 2020, after the adoption of the Strategic Plan. The topic “Research and education to contribute to societal challenges” is at the top of the CSR agenda, because we assume that WUR will have the greatest societal impact through its education and research activities. CSR is all about Impact and impact is a key term in the current strategy. Because CSR, Impact and Strategy are so closely related, especially in a university, it is important to develop new perspectives on how CSR can best be integrated into the strategy. This fits in well with WUR as an organization with a great social responsibility: at an organization like WUR you would expect CSR to be anchored in the core of the organization, so that no separate CSR strategy is needed. The article explores the various ways to embed the CSR perspective in the new Strategic Plan of the organization, describes the strengths and weaknesses of the various approaches and concludes which approach would be the most suitable for a future-proof sustainable university.
From CSR to Impact; How to Integrate CSR in a University Strategy Maters, Erna; Luttik, Joke
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 3, No 2: December 2023
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2023.20491

Abstract

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) has a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda, which was drawn up in 2020, after the adoption of the Strategic Plan. The topic “Research and education to contribute to societal challenges” is at the top of the CSR agenda, because we assume that WUR will have the greatest societal impact through its education and research activities. CSR is all about Impact and impact is a key term in the current strategy. Because CSR, Impact and Strategy are so closely related, especially in a university, it is important to develop new perspectives on how CSR can best be integrated into the strategy. This fits in well with WUR as an organization with a great social responsibility: at an organization like WUR you would expect CSR to be anchored in the core of the organization, so that no separate CSR strategy is needed. The article explores the various ways to embed the CSR perspective in the new Strategic Plan of the organization, describes the strengths and weaknesses of the various approaches and concludes which approach would be the most suitable for a future-proof sustainable university.
The Way Forward in the Energy Transition; Good Practices and Challenges at Wageningen University & Research Maters, Erna; Vaas, Django Milner; Luttik, Joke; Leeuwen, Wouter van
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 4, No 2: December 2024
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2024.24798

Abstract

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to changes in energy used in buildings is the most successful part of Wageningen University & Research’s (WUR) climate policy. In this article the authors evaluate sustainable energy measures and identify key success factors, based on internal documents, discussions with stakeholders, and relevant literature. The role of government and stakeholders has been important, as were the technical possibilities to take a major step with constructing the heat and cold storage on campus. Geopolitical factors also played a role, in particular the war in Ukraine, which increased energy prices, acutely reinforcing the need for energy savings. In addition to saving energy, WUR aims to contribute to the energy transition by generating green electricity with wind turbines and solar panels. Furthermore, electricity used from the grid is offset with wind energy through Dutch guarantees of origin (GVOs), allowing us to offset GHG emissions for electricity at zero. Yet, there are other reasons to save as much as possible on electricity use. In addition to environmental considerations, congestion of the electricity grid plays a role, which is largely associated with the energy transition. Looking ahead, we describe further potential energy reduction opportunities and related challenges. As described in the Rough Outline of WUR Energy Transition 2050 [1], WUR provides clear targets and possible sets of measures to achieve these targets. Challenges include the uncertainty surrounding technological solutions and the availability of funding. We recently expanded our carbon footprint to include Scope 3 emissions of purchased goods and services. An additional challenge is the reduction of implicit energy use through the purchasing chain.
The Way Forward in the Energy Transition; Good Practices and Challenges at Wageningen University & Research Maters, Erna; Vaas, Django Milner; Luttik, Joke; Leeuwen, Wouter van
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 4, No 2: December 2024
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2024.24798

Abstract

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to changes in energy used in buildings is the most successful part of Wageningen University & Research’s (WUR) climate policy. In this article the authors evaluate sustainable energy measures and identify key success factors, based on internal documents, discussions with stakeholders, and relevant literature. The role of government and stakeholders has been important, as were the technical possibilities to take a major step with constructing the heat and cold storage on campus. Geopolitical factors also played a role, in particular the war in Ukraine, which increased energy prices, acutely reinforcing the need for energy savings. In addition to saving energy, WUR aims to contribute to the energy transition by generating green electricity with wind turbines and solar panels. Furthermore, electricity used from the grid is offset with wind energy through Dutch guarantees of origin (GVOs), allowing us to offset GHG emissions for electricity at zero. Yet, there are other reasons to save as much as possible on electricity use. In addition to environmental considerations, congestion of the electricity grid plays a role, which is largely associated with the energy transition. Looking ahead, we describe further potential energy reduction opportunities and related challenges. As described in the Rough Outline of WUR Energy Transition 2050 [1], WUR provides clear targets and possible sets of measures to achieve these targets. Challenges include the uncertainty surrounding technological solutions and the availability of funding. We recently expanded our carbon footprint to include Scope 3 emissions of purchased goods and services. An additional challenge is the reduction of implicit energy use through the purchasing chain.
Best practices in greening transportation at Wageningen University & Research Luttik, Joke; Maters, Erna
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 2, No 2: Desember 2022
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (462.883 KB) | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2022.15474

Abstract

Key words for the sustainable mobility policy of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) are: safe, healthy, sustainable, accessible, emission reduction and future-focused. WUR mobility policy has three key elements, in the following order of importance: 1) less travel, 2) transition to sustainable modes of transport, and 3) efficient, clean transport. The objective is to further decrease our annual carbon emissions by at least 2%. WUR’s long-term mobility policy is outlined in the Mobility Plan 2030. Measures are focused on encouraging cycling and use of public transport, and discouraging use of fossil fuels for business travel and commuting. Alternatives to air travel and sustainable transport options are facilitated. Examples of promoting sustainable transport are offering e-bike test drives for employees and the introduction of an app for business trips with electric cars, bicycles and public transport. A stricter policy on business travel by train within Europe was implemented, with a Travel Check for staff to find alternatives for air travel. In addition, due to the corona pandemic, WUR drew up a policy on remote working and aims to maximise sustainability benefits of remote work.Keyword: Sustainable transport, sustainable mobility, low-emission vehicles, remote working
Best practices in greening transportation at Wageningen University & Research Luttik, Joke; Maters, Erna
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 2, No 2: Desember 2022
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (462.883 KB) | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2022.15474

Abstract

Key words for the sustainable mobility policy of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) are: safe, healthy, sustainable, accessible, emission reduction and future-focused. WUR mobility policy has three key elements, in the following order of importance: 1) less travel, 2) transition to sustainable modes of transport, and 3) efficient, clean transport. The objective is to further decrease our annual carbon emissions by at least 2%. WUR’s long-term mobility policy is outlined in the Mobility Plan 2030. Measures are focused on encouraging cycling and use of public transport, and discouraging use of fossil fuels for business travel and commuting. Alternatives to air travel and sustainable transport options are facilitated. Examples of promoting sustainable transport are offering e-bike test drives for employees and the introduction of an app for business trips with electric cars, bicycles and public transport. A stricter policy on business travel by train within Europe was implemented, with a Travel Check for staff to find alternatives for air travel. In addition, due to the corona pandemic, WUR drew up a policy on remote working and aims to maximise sustainability benefits of remote work.Keyword: Sustainable transport, sustainable mobility, low-emission vehicles, remote working
From Waste Management to Circular Resource Management Maters, Erna; Luttik, Joke
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 1, No 2: December 2021
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (1290.03 KB) | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2021.11745

Abstract

The circular economy is a topic researched by Wageningen University & Research (WUR). In addition to better waste management WUR strives to reduce the use of resources in its operational management. Recently WUR’s executive board ratified a Circular economy policy, vision & strategy 2019-2030. Aim is to achieve a 50% reduction in the use of resources in 2030, compared to 2014. This ambition follows the circular economy policy launched by the Dutch government.By buying fewer products, making smarter use of products, extending their lifespan and re-using products within WUR or elsewhere, WUR will reduce the number of resources used, as well as the amount of waste that is incinerated or recycled. In order to follow the progress of WUR’s circular economy policy WUR will also monitor the usage of resources, in addition to the current waste monitoring. Strategies proposed are to extend the use of products, to recycle products for new purposes, extending the lifespan of new products and to close the circle for new products fully. The success of WUR’s circular economy policy depends on acceptance and support by, and behaviour of students and employees whose expertise WUR will furthermore use where possible. WUR will also cooperate where possible with other organisations and companies.
From Waste Management to Circular Resource Management Maters, Erna; Luttik, Joke
Journal of Sustainability Perspectives Vol 1, No 2: December 2021
Publisher : Universitas Diponegoro

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | Full PDF (1290.03 KB) | DOI: 10.14710/jsp.2021.11745

Abstract

The circular economy is a topic researched by Wageningen University & Research (WUR). In addition to better waste management WUR strives to reduce the use of resources in its operational management. Recently WUR’s executive board ratified a Circular economy policy, vision & strategy 2019-2030. Aim is to achieve a 50% reduction in the use of resources in 2030, compared to 2014. This ambition follows the circular economy policy launched by the Dutch government.By buying fewer products, making smarter use of products, extending their lifespan and re-using products within WUR or elsewhere, WUR will reduce the number of resources used, as well as the amount of waste that is incinerated or recycled. In order to follow the progress of WUR’s circular economy policy WUR will also monitor the usage of resources, in addition to the current waste monitoring. Strategies proposed are to extend the use of products, to recycle products for new purposes, extending the lifespan of new products and to close the circle for new products fully. The success of WUR’s circular economy policy depends on acceptance and support by, and behaviour of students and employees whose expertise WUR will furthermore use where possible. WUR will also cooperate where possible with other organisations and companies.