Kozminski University has joined a prestigious group of eight leading European business schools that have united their efforts to collectively reduce their carbon footprint. The initiator of this groundbreaking collaboration is Vlerick Business School, which has led to the creation of the AERO network (Alliance for Environmental Response in Business Schools). The aim of this initiative is to exchange best practices, set common goals, and implement projects to reduce CO2 emissions.
AERO is the first initiative of its kind, focusing on the operational side of business school decarbonisation. Unlike other projects that concentrate on sustainability research or education, AERO prioritises practical actions to limit carbon emissions in the daily operations of academic institutions.
Professor David Veredas, Associate Dean of Sustainability at Vlerick Business School and the founder of the network, emphasises: "Business schools are increasingly addressing sustainability topics through research and educational programs. However, it is equally important to critically assess and reduce our own carbon footprint. Through an atmosphere of trust and openness, AERO enables us to share best practices and seek synergies. We also plan to engage in advocacy for decarbonisation."
The first network meeting took place in February 2025 in Brussels, where representatives of member schools discussed future topics and projects. Key areas of focus included methods for measuring and reducing scope 3 emissions in business schools, raising ecological awareness among internal and external stakeholders, and the role of carbon credits in achieving carbon neutrality. A requirement for participation in the network was also ensuring that universities are accessible via sustainable transportation methods, underscoring a commitment to real pro-environmental actions.
The AERO network consists of:
- Esade Business School (Spain)
- ESSEC Business School (France)
- Kozminski University (Poland)
- SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy)
- Stockholm School of Economics (Sweden)
- University of St. Gallen (Switzerland)
- Vlerick Business School (Belgium)
- WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management (Germany)
Kozminski University's participation in this initiative is another step towards responsible management and the implementation of real solutions for sustainable development. As part of the AERO network, our university will actively engage in developing emission reduction strategies and implementing new solutions that could serve as a model for other educational institutions.
