All life on earth – micro-organisms, plants and animals – is under threat. How can we address this crisis of nature and protect our biodiversity? How can we restore the broken relationship between people and nature? How do we provide a healthy living environment while securing sustainable food production? And what ambitious plans for nature and climate are needed to achieve this?
At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, we care for the diversity of people, animals and nature. Our campus squarehas been transformed and is now greener than ever. On the roof of the Main Building you’ll even find the first university “worm hotel,” where worms turn coffee grounds into compost. That’s how we’re building a sustainable campus, together.
Biodiversity is also central to our research and education. Our scientists are exploring alternatives to plastic – a project that was nominated for the Klokhuis Science Prize 2025. More than 1,500 species were identified in Amsterdam during the City Nature Challenge – an initiative that VU Amsterdam helped to drive. Our researchers also provide advice on citizen science in Amsterdamse Bos and on climate-friendly agriculture. In the (Dutch) Biology bachelor’s programme, our students learn all about ecology, evolution and sustainable ecosystems. And in the master’s programme on Environment and Resource Management, students tackle today’s most pressing sustainability challenges. Through all these initiatives, VU Amsterdam’s community demonstrates its engagement at city, national and international levels, and its love for our planet.
Together, we’re working towards a sustainable society. Locally and further afield, as global citizens. For the sake of a better world, for current and future generations.
