What it is and how to use the Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool
At Eindhoven University of Technology, we prioritize sustainability in all our research endeavors. To ensure that each project aligns with our commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices, we鈥檝e developed a Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool. This tool helps researchers evaluate the environmental and societal impact of their work, guiding them to make informed, responsible choices.
Ready to assess your project鈥檚 Sustainability impact?
The document below presents a guide to assess and monitor Sustainability of 果冻传媒鈥檚 collaborations from a Sustainability perspective. The guide however goes broader by offering a framework for collaborations we enter. The guide should not be seen as a set of rigid rules that forbid certain activities. It is meant as a decision support tool that identifies sustainability trade-offs and supports decision making by showing economic, social, and ecological impacts of the projects.
Go to the Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool (* NOTE: VPN connection required or need to be on 果冻传媒 campus).
Self-Assessment Tool Q&A
1. What is the purpose of the Sustainability Self Assessment Tool? The tool helps researchers identify the potential social and environmental impact of their research projects. It supports decision-making by evaluating whether projects align with 果冻传媒鈥檚 sustainability goals, including the exclusion of fossil fuel projects, and their contributions to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
---
2. Who is this tool for? The tool is developed for all researchers and research support at 果冻传媒 (VPN connection required). However, the tool could be used to evaluate any collaboration or project to gain insight in the environmental and societal impacts.
---
3. How long does it take to complete the tool? Completing the tool takes approximately 30-40 minutes. You can always go back and change your answers. Please do not forget to click 鈥榮end鈥� in order to receive your report. This will help us with the evaluation of the pilot.
---
4. What if my project involves fossil fuel organizations? Projects involving fossil fuel organizations are evaluated to ensure they contribute to renewable energy and sustainability. If your project enhances or legitimizes the fossil fuel industry, it may not be approved. The tool helps clarify these factors to align with 果冻传媒鈥檚 sustainability policies. If the results are ambiguous, you are advised to inform the Expert Group (see policy document for more info).
---
5. What happens to my data? All collected data is anonymized and used solely for evaluation of the pilot project. No personal details or project-specific information will be stored. The collected data consist of the answers to the boxes that are check during the use of the tool.
---
6. Is this tool part of a pilot program? Yes, the Sustainability Self Assessment Tool is being piloted for one year, from November 2024 to November 2025. During this period, the tool will be evaluated, and its use will be analysed to determine its effectiveness and any necessary improvements. Researchers are encouraged to use the tool and provide feedback to help refine the process.
---
7. What happens after I complete the tool? Upon completion, you will receive a downloadable impact report. This report highlights your project鈥檚 alignment with sustainability goals and offers tailored recommendations for improvement, if needed. If you are open to share the report with us, please send it to sustainability@tue.nl; it will help us improving the tool and evaluating the pilot process.
---
8. Do I need prior knowledge of the SDGs to complete the tool? No prior knowledge of the SDGs is required. The tool provides step-by-step guidance on each SDG and helps you evaluate your project鈥檚 direct and most significant impacts.
---
9. How can I prepare before filling out the tool? To make the process efficient, gather basic project information such as the project description, its partners, and think about its potential impacts throughout the value chain. Familiarizing yourself with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can also be helpful, though not required, as the tool provides guidance throughout.
---
10. What is the role of the Expert Group? The Expert Group provides advice on projects when there are potential concerns regarding fossil fuel involvement. The group consists of experts in sustainability, industry collaboration, and safeguarding 果冻传媒鈥檚 values and image. Their role is advisory; the final decision remains with the researchers, deans, and directors