Sustainability at ESMT
Sustainable Business Transformation Initiative
In June 2021, ESMT launched the Sustainable Business Transformation Initiative to expand our academic impact in research and education on critical areas affecting business and society. Our goal is to present innovative solutions to global environmental and social challenges. This initiative served as the inaugural step towards the establishment of the Institute for Sustainable Transformation, which was officially introduced on November 2, 2021, at COP26 in Glasgow. The institute strengthens collaborations with external stakeholders and enhances faculty expertise in a range of diverse thematic areas related to sustainable business.
As part of the initiative, Deutsche Bank is supporting the establishment of a professorship in sustainable finance at ESMT, with Prof. Jörg Rocholl as the chairholder.
This professorship underscores our dedication to fostering economic growth while alleviating pressure on the natural environment and considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. It will explore incentives and risk-sharing options, providing valuable insights into future policy frameworks.
Furthermore, within this initiative, DHL Group is actively participating in establishing a professorship in sustainable accounting at ESMT, with Prof. Per Olsson as the chairholder. The focus of this professorship is to address the measurement and reporting of ESG components within the field of accounting.
The Sustainable Business Roundtable (SBRT)
Formed in 2011, the SBRT acts as a collaborative learning network. It brings together outstanding companies with a global presence, spearheading the sustainability revolution for clearer environmental and social impact. Learn more here.
Climate Governance Initiative
ESMT, together with the German Council for Sustainable Development (RNE) and Board Academy e.V., has joined the World Economic Forum’s Climate Governance Initiative and coordinates its Chapter in Germany. The network aims to mobilize non-executive directors and supervisory board members (“Aufsichtsräte”) to align business models with ambitious climate policy and a set of joint Climate Governance Principles. Find more information here.
Student and staff led initiatives
Sustainability Ambassadors
The Sustainability Ambassadors at ESMT aim to transform the school into a more environmentally-friendly campus, by engaging both students and staff in initiatives whereby they can educate themselves and bring sustainability initiatives to life. The ambassadors run diverse initiatives aimed at raising sustainability awareness, incorporating sustainable choices into everyday life, and driving long-term change. Successful initiatives included the introduction of reusable coffee mugs and reusable take-out bowls on campus and an introduction of recycling bins and awareness-raising training for students.
Net Impact Club
Net Impact is a global community of students, professionals, and citizens in over 40 countries from various sectors committed to sustainability and social impact. At the Net Impact ESMT Berlin chapter, students drive positive change through business to accelerate sustainability. They collaborate with various organizations, including startups, corporations, foundations, and other stakeholders.