RWU shapes the path to a climate-neutral university

On October 28, 2025, the first future conference entitled "Good Climate 2030" took place at RWU Ravensburg-Weingarten University of Applied Sciences. The aim of the event was to jointly develop and evaluate ideas and measures on how the university can become greenhouse gas-neutral by 2030 - in line with the state's goal for a climate-neutral state administration.

Developing strategies together

All members of the university were invited to join RWU's climate protection managers, Annabel Göhler and Carolin-Anna Achberger, in discussing the university's future direction in the areas of climate protection and sustainability. "As an educational institution, we are pioneers of social developments and technical innovations. This gives us a special mission," emphasized Chancellor Henning Rudewig in his welcoming address.

Climate change, empathy and the status quo at RWU

The conference kicked off with a keynote speech by Geo Adelmann, a psychology graduate, who took the 40 or so participants on a "rollercoaster ride of emotions" - from the global and local effects of climate change to issues of inequality and empathy and the options available to universities. "It is important to endure the unpleasant feelings that drive us in order to be able to realize the underlying need - a good life for all," said Adelmann.

Carolin-Anna Achberger then presented the university's current greenhouse gas balance. In 2023, RWU caused a total of 3,263 tons of CO₂ equivalents - a unit of measurement used to compare and summarize the climatic effects of various greenhouse gases. Around 80 percent of emissions are currently attributable to commuting by university staff and a further 14 percent to the buildings' heating requirements.

Flagship projects for greater sustainability

Based on these results, Annabel Göhler presented 13 lead projects that offer the greatest potential for climate protection measures at RWU. These were then intensively discussed and evaluated in small groups. "Here you have the chance to make your contribution and contribute your opinion," said Anja Konzept, research assistant at the Institute for Electromobility, enthusiastically.

Responsibility of all university members

The Future Conference marks an important step on the way to a greenhouse gas-neutral university - and shows that change can only succeed if we work together. The results of the conference will be incorporated into the further development of RWU's climate protection concept. The Future Conference made it clear that climate protection is not just a task for the administration, but a shared responsibility for all members of the university. Every idea, every commitment and every small step contributes to making the vision "Good Climate 2030" a reality.