UdKlima

Climate change poses major challenges for our society—however, at times, it can also open up opportunities for us to work together to shape sustainable paths for the future. At the Universität der Künste Berlin, our academic self-governance allows us to initiate certain changes comparatively quickly and creatively. With around 4,000 students, 300 employees, and 450 faculty members on a campus covering approximately 96,000 square meters, our commitment to climate justice has a tangible impact—on campus, in the city, and far beyond.

The Berlin University of the Arts has set out to become a climate-friendly and sustainable university. Since November 4, 2020, we have been committed to this responsibility by declaring a climate emergency. Since then, numerous initiatives have emerged that show how climate justice can be lived in many different ways. The projects span the areas of teaching, art and research, operations, governance, and university management, and are already pointing toward a “whole institution approach.”

As an art university, the UdK Berlin is particularly well positioned to support structural change not only through its own emissions (carbon footprint) but also through the impact of teaching, art and research on society (carbon handprint).

Every member of the UdK Berlin — whether student, teacher, or staff member — is invited to help shape this change. Together, we can develop new ideas, take responsibility, and show that a university can be an inspiring place for active climate protection.