The University of Parma, aware of the role that a university institution has in society and in the education of future generations, intends to make the concept of sustainability its own, in order to guarantee individuals the satisfaction of “...the needs of the present without compromising the possibility of future generations to satisfy their own ...” (Bruntland Commission, 1987).
This commitment, with the contribution of the different components of the university community (students, faculty and technical/administrative staff), is embodied in the many areas in which the University carries out both its traditional functions of research, teaching and technology transfer and the more current ones related to the University's third mission, such as connecting with institutions in the area and mediating between its graduates and the world of work. Consistent with the ideas behind the concept of sustainability, the University of Parma intends to address a broad and global challenge involving environmental protection, as well as community well-being, social equity and economic development.
However, the adoption of sustainable social, economic and environmental policies is not only a compelling necessity, but also an extraordinary opportunity for innovation, protection and enhancement of the territory's resources.
The University of Parma is part of the RUS (Network of Universities for Sustainable Development) and pursues the goals of the Agenda with a view to transparency and broad sharing of the University's principles and values with the community and the territory, in order to fully act its role as a social actor.
In 2016, the CRUI - Conference of Italian University Rectors - officially approved the agreement to establish the RUS - Network of Universities for Sustainable Development, of which the University of Parma is a member.
This is the first experience of coordination and sharing among all Italian universities committed to the issues of environmental sustainability and social responsibility.