Approved LBTU’s Sustainability Policy
The Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies (LBTU) has taken a significant step towards sustainable development by formulating and officially approving its Sustainability Policy through the LBTU Council. This policy is based on the goals and values outlined in the LBTU Development Strategy for 2023–2027, while also addressing current global challenges. The policy defines the university’s sustainability principles, directions for development, and key priorities. It confirms LBTU’s commitment to the responsible use of resources, the integration of sustainability into education and research, and the advancement of sustainable governance practices.
LBTU Rector Irina Arhipova emphasized:"Sustainability is a field in which universities have both the capacity and responsibility to set an example by meaningfully and effectively integrating its principles into all operational processes. LBTU integrates and develops sustainability principles across all its activities – by creating a sustainable and modern study and research process, fostering an environment where science, research, and innovation generate solutions for both local and global challenges, and by ensuring the observance of sustainability principles in university governance."
LBTU’s Sustainability Policy is built around eight principles of sustainable development:
Emphasizing the importance of science, innovation, and technology,
Active participation in global sustainability initiatives,
Transparent, ethical, and responsible governance,
Responsible and sustainable use of resources,
Strengthening ecological and climate responsibility,
Promoting social inclusion and fairness,
Fostering collaboration and partnerships,
Ensuring a safe, healthy, and supportive work environment.
The policy sets four strategic directions:
Sustainable education and student engagement in academic processes,
Scientific research and innovation,
Sustainable governance and infrastructure development,
Social responsibility, inclusion, and public engagement.
LBTU’s Sustainability Policy outlines specific priorities, including:
Integrating sustainability into education and science,
Developing innovations in bioeconomy and disciplines represented at LBTU,
Creating a sustainable work environment and fostering human resource development,
Strengthening digital sustainability,
Moving towards climate neutrality,
Implementing sustainability monitoring.
LBTU is committed to continuously developing and refining its sustainability policy and to implementing it comprehensively across all areas of activity. The goal is to ensure long-term positive impacts on the environment, the economy, and society. The university firmly believes that by combining the potential of science and innovation with responsible action, it is possible to build a sustainable future for the next generations.
The full LBTU Sustainability Policy is available on the university’s website under the “About Us” – “LBTU Documents” section.
This initiative was carried out as part of the project “Strengthening LBTU’s Institutional Capacity for Excellence in Studies and Research,” funded by the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).