A COMMITMENT TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

At Franklin University Switzerland, we are committed to shaping a sustainable future for our community, the environment, and society at large. Sustainability is not only an ethical imperative but also a strategic priority. As an international institution with a global student body, we understand the importance of fostering environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic viability.

We believe that sustainability should be integrated into all aspects of university life, from curriculum and research to campus operations and community engagement. Our sustainability strategy is designed to guide Franklin in reducing its environmental footprint, promoting sustainable development, and preparing our students to become responsible leaders in a rapidly changing world. Our goal is to cultivate a culture of sustainability that empowers our students, faculty, and staff to lead transformative change in their communities and the world.

Respect for Sustainability

We advance solutions for a sustainable future, recognizing the interdependent relationship between people and the planet and acting in ways to live and work sustainably.

KEY PILLARS OF FRANKLIN'S SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY

Our sustainability strategy is built on four key pillars: Environmental Sustainability, Social Sustainability, Sustainability in Teaching and Research, and Economic Sustainability. Each pillar is supported by a set of goals and initiatives that promote long-term, sustainable practices across all areas of the university.

Environmental Sustainability: A Greener Campus

We are committed to minimizing our ecological footprint through proactive environmental stewardship and sustainable campus practices. Our initiatives focus on reducing energy consumption, waste, water usage, and promoting biodiversity on our campus in Lugano.

  • Green Office Initiatives: Through our Green Office program, we are empowering departments and offices across the university to integrate sustainability into daily operations.
  • Green Mobility: We promote sustainable transport options, encouraging walking, cycling, and the use of public transportation among students, staff, and faculty.
  • Carbon Reduction and Recycling Initiatives: Our goal is to reduce our carbon emissions through energy efficiency programs, sustainable building practices, and the adoption of renewable energy sources.

Social Sustainability: Promoting Equity and Community Engagement

Social sustainability is integral to Franklin's mission of preparing students for leadership in a diverse and interconnected world. We aim to foster an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative environment where all members of our community can thrive. Our commitment to social sustainability involves promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and active engagement with local and global communities. Our focus on social sustainability is rooted in our dedication to creating an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered. We measure the effectiveness of our initiatives through surveys on employee satisfaction, DEI outcomes, and professional development participation.

  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We are dedicated to creating an inclusive academic environment where students, faculty, and staff from all backgrounds are valued and supported.
  • Student Well-Being: Ensuring that all students have access to the resources and support they need to succeed, including mental health services, career development programs, and social engagement opportunities.
  • Equal Pay: Franklin University Switzerland is committed to maintaining an inclusive and fair workplace where all employees receive equitable compensation for equal work.

Economic Sustainability: Building a Resilient Future

Economic sustainability at Franklin means operating in a financially responsible and transparent manner, ensuring the long-term viability of the university while maintaining academic excellence. We aim to achieve a balance between resource allocation, strategic growth, and financial resilience. As we work to refine our financial operations, we track our progress using key metrics, such as enrollment figures, budget alignment, and fundraising growth.

  • Sustainable Financial Practices: We prioritize sound financial management, focusing on long-term financial health through diversified funding streams, cost management, and responsible investments.
  • New avenues for financial diversification: To enhance our financial resilience, we are focusing on sustainable investments and fundraising efforts.
  • Global Partnerships: We continue to cultivate partnerships with organizations and other academic institutions to diversify our student body and increase our impact globally.

Teaching and Research: Advancing Knowledge for a Sustainable Future

  • Sustainability in Curriculum: Sustainability is integrated into a wide variety of programs at Franklin. We emphasize interdisciplinary learning, where students can engage in sustainability-focused projects, research, and case studies.

JOIN US IN SHAPING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Sustainability is a journey, and at Franklin, we are committed to creating an environment where sustainability is woven into the fabric of everything we do. We invite all members of the Franklin community – students, faculty, staff, and alumni – to actively participate in our sustainability efforts.