Universities serve as role models in many areas. As an institution where research is conducted, knowledge is gathered, teaching takes place, and life is lived, the University of Zurich (UZH) bears a significant and considerable responsibility. This is especially true in the area of sustainability, which has become more prominent than ever in the wake of the climate strike movement. The VSUZH (Association of Students at the University of Zurich) is committed to sustainability at the University of Zurich. This commitment is demonstrated, among other things, by the Student Sustainability Commission (NHK).

The NHK (Sustainable University Commission) is committed to promoting sustainable thinking and practices in both university and student life. On the one hand, the NHK draws attention to shortcomings and strives (through institutional channels) to improve the situation at the University of Zurich (UZH), focusing on teaching, research, and infrastructure. The NHK networks with commissions, associations, and projects at the UZH, as well as with other Swiss universities and inter-university institutions (such as the Zurich Sustainability Week) that pursue similar goals, in order to achieve progress through combined efforts. It advocates for sustainable university operations, including through collaboration with the University's Sustainability Commission, the Sustainability Working Group of the Mensa Commission, and the Real Estate Development Commission (IEK) of the VSUZH (Association of Students at the University of Zurich).

Furthermore, awareness of the topic is raised on social media and at various events. The NHK draws attention both to ways of making everyday life more sustainable and to institutional shortcomings at the University of Zurich. For example, it organizes panel discussions and the NH-K Limabar, where active and interested people can meet and exchange ideas about sustainability.

In spring 2019, the VSUZH council adopted a position paper on sustainability at the University of Zurich.

Are you interested in sustainability and studying at the University of Zurich? Then our commission is just right for you!

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