Environmental impact

Last changed: 10 April 2024

SLU operations directly affect the environment through emissions and our use of resources. However, we can also have a direct, positive impact on the environment through education, research and environmental monitoring and assessment.

Environmental reporting

According to the Ordinance on Environmental Management in Government Agencies (SFS 2009:907), SLU must work in accordance with an established environmental management system. SLU must annually account for its environmental management work by reporting to the Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.

The report must include, among other things, the following:

  • Our direct and indirect environmental impact.
  • An approved environmental policy.
  • Our environmental objectives.
  • Action plans indicating division of responsibility and time frames.
  • Approved measures.
  • An account of the results.
  • Suggestions for continual environmental improvements.

In addition, information must be submitted to e.g. the Swedish Energy Agency and municipalities.

Indirect environmental impact

The most important effect that SLU has on the environment is indirect.

Teaching and research carried out at SLU contribute to sustainable development. Through our environmental certification, environment-related course and programme content will become clearer to SLU's current and future students.

Through knowledge and awareness of environmental issues, SLU students can affect the environment in a positive way, long-term.

The research carried out at SLU can also contribute to long-term sustainable development.

Direct environmental impact

Direct environmental impact includes the use of chemicals, waste management, environmental issues during the construction of new buildings, etc.

The Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency annually request all public authorities, including universities and higher education institutions, to report on their direct environmental impact.

Direct environmental impact is divided into the following:

  • Business trips and other fuel consumption
  • Energy use
  • Environmental requirements in procurements