Sustainability
SUPSI pursues sustainability objectives in its economic, social, environmental and cultural aspects in its activities. SUPSI is committed to implementing the principles of sustainability in its activities by involving members of the university community and stakeholders in the region with projects and numerous initiatives.
As a university of applied sciences, SUPSI is aware of its key role in fostering the transition to a more sustainable society. The SUPSI Strategy 2021 - 2024 includes the strategic objective "Sustainable Development", which lays the foundations for integrating the global objectives of sustainable development into the management of the institution and the execution of its mandates.
For the effective implementation of measures to achieve the strategic objectives and with a view to continuous improvement, each department, affiliated school and directorate has its own four-year action plan. In addition to these, there is the Equal Opportunities, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan. These plans describe the respective fields of education and the research and management activities of the institution for the next two years. Sustainability finds ample space in each of them.
Sustainability together with equal opportunities are anchored to the SUPSI Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) through a dedicated process. This relates transversally to the other key management processes with the aim of fostering the continuous improvement of the entire institution.
The Sustainability Charter defines the commitments and methods for implementing the principles of sustainability at SUPSI, in line with the principles of the institutional philosophy and in relation to all key processes included in the Quality Assurance System. It was approved by the SUPSI Council in April 2020.
For each of the priority themes identified, sustainability targets have been defined as the basis for defining priorities for action over the next two years.
SUPSI governance
Integrate the global objectives of sustainable development into the management of the institution and the execution of our mandates.
Undergraduate and Graduate Studies
Develop sustainability-oriented knowledge and skills in Undergraduate and Graduate Studies courses and ensure access for all. Offer support and accompaniment to students.
Continuing Education
Develop sustainability-oriented knowledge and skills in Continuing Education courses and promote access to lifelong learning.
Research and services
Sustainability-oriented applied research and service provision for actors on the ground.
Region and participation
Involve our stakeholders by fostering the development of a culture of participation in sustainability issues. Develop dialogue with local companies, organisations and associations on sustainability issues and support them in the implementation of sustainable innovation.
Social Responsibility
Ensure a professional, stimulating and inclusive working environment with a focus on the health, well-being and safety of employees.
Environmental Responsibility
Ensure the sparing use of natural resources in the management of SUPSI.
Economic responsibility
Ensure sustainability in the economic/financial management of SUPSI.
SUPSI Continuing Education contributes to achieving the goals of sustainable development in the context of Agenda 2030.
- Goal 1: No poverty
- Goal 2: Zero hunger
- Goal 3: Good health and well-being
- Goal 4: Quality education
- Goal 5: Gender equality
- Goal 6: Clean water and sanitation
- Goal 7: Affordable and clean energy
- Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth
- Goal 9: Industry, innovation and infrastructure
- Goal 10: Reduced inequality
- Goal 11: Sustainable cities and communities
- Goal 12: Responsible consumption and production
- Goal 13: Climate action
- Goal 14: Life below water
- Goal 15: Life on land
- Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
the SUPSI sustainability platform
SUPStain is a platform for SUPSI students that promotes dialogue on sustainability issues in favour of initiatives that motivate, inspire and support sustainable project ideas.
SUPSI encourages male and female employees and students to use public transport and other forms of sustainable mobility for their home-work and home-study, and leisure travel.
For SUPSI community members, further information on the different initiatives is available on the Student Portal and the Employee Portal.
Attentive to the needs of employees and students, SUPSI participates in the 'Arcobaleno aziendale' project, making a significant contribution to the costs of the Arcobaleno annual subscription.
At the Campus EST in Lugano-Viganello and the Mendrisio SBB railway station there is a rental station for traditional and electric bicycles operated by PubliBike. Students and employees can take out annual subscriptions at favourable prices.
The initiative is promoted by the municipalities and managed by the Fondazione Il Gabbiano through the Muovi-Ti project. On subscription, a card is provided that allows the use of all the bicycles in the fleet. The project is also important on the social side, as it provides socio-professional reintegration measures for the management and maintenance of the bicycles.