Projects

Framework: Transition to a Fossil-Free Society

Maastricht University has developed a framework to evaluate whether research projects and collaborations support or hinder the transition to a fossil-free society. This tool helps researchers assess the nature of their project and the role of the partner involved. If risks are identified, advice is sought from a dedicated Fossil Assessment Committee. The framework ensures that UM aligns its academic partnerships with its climate goals and values. It also increases transparency and encourages dialogue on the responsibilities of universities in tackling the climate crisis. The tool is now fully integrated into UM’s research approval processes.

Climate Fresks

To raise awareness and understanding of climate change, UM has organised over ten Climate Fresk workshops with participation from hundreds of students and staff. This engaging workshop uses a collaborative game based on scientific sources, allowing participants to uncover the complex web of causes and consequences of climate disruption. The sessions spark insightful discussions and help translate knowledge into action, both individually and institutionally. They are part of a broader strategy to build climate literacy across the university. Due to their success, Climate Fresks will continue to be offered as part of UM’s sustainability engagement programme.

Swap Room

Located in the Sustainability Hub, the Swap Room offers students a place to exchange clothing and accessories—completely free of charge. With more than 1,000 clothing items swapped so far, the room brings the principles of circularity to life in a fun and accessible way. It encourages conscious consumption and helps reduce textile waste, one of the most polluting industries globally. The Swap Room is run by student volunteers and regularly hosts themed events and has become a vibrant part of UM’s campus sustainability culture.

Sustainability Days

Each year, UM Faculty Green Teams organise their own Faculty Sustainability Days to engage students and staff around the theme of sustainability. These events are tailored to the faculty’s context and include workshops, lectures, panel discussions, and hands-on activities. By bringing education, research and operations together, Sustainability Days create space for dialogue and inspiration within each academic community. They also strengthen interdisciplinary connections and raise awareness of faculty-specific challenges and opportunities. The events have become a valued tradition across the university.

Education Grant

To accelerate the integration of sustainability in education, UM offers an annual Education Grant of €10,000. This funding supports innovative teaching projects that embed sustainability in course content, learning outcomes or teaching methods. The grant is open to all faculties and aims to empower educators to experiment and collaborate across disciplines. The Education Grant reflects UM’s commitment to preparing students as changemakers and supporting staff in this educational transformation.

Sustainable Mobility

UM is committed to making mobility to, from, and within the university more sustainable. This includes encouraging cycling, walking, and the use of public transport, as well as reducing emissions from business and student travel. New policies are being developed in consultation with faculties and service centres to align mobility behaviour with climate goals. Carbon reporting, incentive structures, and infrastructure improvements (like secure bike parking and e-bike support) are part of the approach. The aim is to foster a culture of low-impact mobility that fits the needs of a modern, international university.

Euregional Centre of Expertise on Circularity

UM is taking the lead in setting up a Euregional Expertise Centre on Circularity to accelerate the transition to circular systems in Limburg and beyond. The centre will connect researchers, policymakers, companies and civil society to map challenges and develop practical, science-based recommendations. It builds on UM’s strengths in interdisciplinary research and regional engagement. By fostering cross-border collaboration and applied knowledge exchange, the centre aims to support systemic change and strengthen circularity as a driver of regional innovation and resilience. Planning and stakeholder dialogues are currently underway.​

Vision on Water and Waste Management

UM is currently developing a strategic vision on water and waste management to align with its broader sustainability ambitions. The aim is to minimise waste, prevent pollution, use resources efficiently, and close loops wherever possible. The vision will guide future policies and investments—ranging from water-saving infrastructure and waste reduction targets to circular procurement and reuse strategies. It’s a crucial step in turning everyday operations into drivers of positive environmental impact.​

Omnium

From rising global tensions… to open Omnium conversations… to student-led dialogue events… to a thriving UM community. 

Omnium was created in 2024 to provide a safe space for students and employees to discuss a wide variety of topics. Especially the rising tensions concerning the Israel-Palestinian conflict were an incentive to organise meaningful dialogue.

The idea is to exchange opinions, rather than it is to convince each other. Dialogue is a way of interacting that focuses on mutual respect, understanding and exchange of different views.