At VU Amsterdam, we are very committed to sustainability.
Waste
- Composting
There are two worm composting bins on campus. Every week, the worms turn about 10 to 15 kg of organic waste from VU Amsterdam into compost. - Cigarette Butt Cleanup
The VU campus is completely smoke-free. However, people still occasionally smoke near the buildings. That’s why we periodically organize cleanup campaigns in collaboration with Peukenzee, and there are cigarette butt posts and ashtrays at various entrances. This helps prevent cigarette butts from causing environmental damage via groundwater. - Separate Collection of Plastic and Beverage Cartons
Plastic packaging and beverage cartons are collected separately. This waste stream accounts for approximately 20 to 30% of residual waste. - Reusable Drinking Cups
We no longer offer disposable cups. Employees, students, and visitors can bring their own cup or purchase a reusable cup at one of the food and beverage locations or retailers on campus. - Returning Deposit Containers
There are deposit return machines in the Main Building, the NU Building, and the MF Building. Here, you can return cans and plastic bottles. You’ll receive your deposit back or can donate it to a charity.
Energy
- Sustainable Electricity
100% of the electricity purchased by VU Amsterdam comes from wind energy and is generated sustainably. - Heat and Cold Storage
The OZW Building, the NU Building, and the VU Research Building are heated and cooled using a heat and cold storage system (WKO). - Energy-Generating Elevators
The elevators in the Main Building and the NU Building generate energy while in use. This results in annual energy savings of approximately 5 to 10% of elevator energy consumption. - Reducing Gas Consumption
Our goal is to use natural gas exclusively for research purposes by 2040.
Green Campus
- Tiny Forest
There is a tiny forest on the campus plaza: a densely vegetated mini-forest that contributes to biodiversity, climate adaptation, and a pleasant living environment. - Bee Hotels
Scattered across the campus are several bee hotels that contribute to biodiversity and a healthy living environment for pollinating insects. - Green and Blue Roofs
Nearly all of our buildings feature green and/or blue roofs. These contribute to biodiversity, water retention, and cooling during hot periods. - Reuse of Furniture
We reduce our carbon footprint by giving existing furniture a second life and, where possible, purchasing refurbished educational and office furniture.