Fostering international exchange while acting sustainably – the DAAD and its partners face this challenge.

Nothing is more intrinsic to the DAAD’s raison d’être than international exchange. Personal encounters, face-to-face conversations about ideas and insights, and opportunities to experience different spheres of learning and living – in short, the chance to “immerse” oneself in new environments and (academic) cultures – are vital if international exchange is to be successful and global challenges surmounted. It is precisely such exchange that is more important than ever in view of the growing renationalisation of many areas of global society. 

At the same time, the DAAD is well aware of the massive challenges posed by the climate crisis. Through its funding programmes, it is therefore supporting the expansion of teaching and research, as well as the development of technical solutions to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change, to resolve global health issues and to tackle many other sustainability topics. It is also rising to the challenge of rethinking exchange and mobility – both within its own organisation and in its funding programmes – with a view to making them climate- and environmentally friendly wherever possible.

Setting the course for sustainable mobility

In a working paper, the DAAD has set out guidelines for sustainable mobility, specifically also addressing possible conflicting goals. Against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic, the climate crisis and other international challenges, the document describes the objective of finding new approaches to mobility and international exchange. This applies to the mobility not only of the DAAD’s own employees – in terms of business travel or commuting, for example – but also of its scholarship holders. The DAAD does not wish to present any miracle solutions, but rather to offer orientation and provide food for thought.

Exploiting the potential offered by virtual mobility

New formats for virtual mobility and digital exchange offer great potential for climate-friendly internationalisation. Used in a target-oriented manner, they enrich international exchange, while acting at the same time as an effective means of reducing carbon emissions. For this reason, the DAAD is increasingly relying on digital formats – both within its own organisation and in the design and orientation of its internationalisation programmes.

Change by exchange

As a learning organisation, the DAAD wants to engage in even greater exchange on the subject of sustainable mobility – with scholarship holders, with universities, and with other partners. How can we further increase the positive contribution that the DAAD’s programmes make to the global Sustainable Development Goals – while at the same time reducing our carbon footprint? In line with our guiding principle of “Change by exchange”, we want exchange also to serve as the basis for sustainable change in this area.

Further informationen

DAAD Perspectives "Sustainable Mobility“
Interview “Setting the right course now for sustainable mobility” (German language only)
Brochure “Climate-friendly travel – Ten tips for scholarship holders in Germany”