Sustainability at the heart of SBS-EM 

At the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management, sustainability is embedded in all dimensions of institutional life, beyond teaching and research. 
Through the Sustainable Development Initiative (SDI), the school deploys a comprehensive approach that spans its ways of working, governance practices, partnerships, and community life. This pillar therefore covers all institutional dimensions contributing to the school’s sustainable transformation. This approach is aligned with the SBS-EM Strategic Plan 2021–2026 “We are Ernest”, which aims to strengthen the faculty’s role in the transition towards a more sustainable society. It also reflects the ambition to “walk the talk” by aligning internal practices with the school’s values and mission. 

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Operations 


Environmental responsibility 

SBS-EM is working to better understand, monitor, and reduce its environmental impact. 
This includes in particular: 

  • greenhouse gas emissions;  
  • energy consumption;  
  • mobility;  
  • campus infrastructure and activities.  

This approach is based on a continuous improvement mindset, aiming to gradually reduce the school’s environmental footprint. 

Sustainable practices 

Environmental considerations are progressively integrated into daily activities, including: 

  • responsible event organisation;  
  • more sustainable procurement practices;  
  • mindful use of resources;  
  • adaptation of operational processes.  
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Governance 


Ethical governance framework 

SBS-EM ensures that its partnerships and collaborations are aligned with the values of the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), academic freedom, and international sustainability principles. 
An internal Ethical Charter guides the school’s relationships with external organisations and defines the principles of responsible engagement. 
It is based on: 

  • the values of ULB;  
  • the principles of the UN Global Compact;  
  • transparent and responsible governance.  

This framework supports coherent decision-making aligned with the school’s commitments. 

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Culture 


Learning and engagement 

The sustainability dynamic is also driven by community engagement and shared learning spaces. 
Key initiatives include: 

  • Ernest Learning Lab (ELL): A series of events organised at SBS-EM that brings together students, teachers, researchers and staff to share, discuss and explore topics related to teaching, research and school reform. 
  • Engaged Students Programme: A programme enabling students to participate in concrete sustainability-related projects. 
  • Sustainability & Business Club: A student-led initiative encouraging dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the organisation of events on sustainability topics. 
Updated on May 28, 2026