Environment and sustainability,

Sustainable building materials and climate-efficient building services engineering are the cornerstones of the construction transition and forward-looking architecture. At the FHNW, you will learn to plan resource-efficient construction methods, utilise renewable materials and integrate smart building technologies. From digital planning to certified passive houses: your skills are in greater demand than ever – in the construction sector as well as in the property industry.

The establishment of circular economy concepts represents a paradigm shift: the focus here is on the principle of reuse, modern recycling processes and the development of closed-loop value chains. In FHNW study and research projects, you will work alongside companies and institutions to develop marketable, sustainable solutions for the optimal use of natural resources and the minimisation of waste.

Renewable energies and efficient energy systems are at the heart of the energy transition. With our degree and continuing education programmes in the field of energy, you will become a specialist in sustainable energy generation, use and management. Practical project work, expertise in electricity and heating networks, and in-depth knowledge of storage technologies will prepare you to support companies or local authorities in their transition to climate-friendly energy concepts.

Companies, organisations and the public sector are under increasing pressure to act in an environmentally responsible manner. In the field of environmental management, you will learn to identify ecological risks, develop sustainability strategies and confidently evaluate environmental indicators. Application-oriented methodologies, for example from quality and sustainability management, will enable you to optimise processes and ensure compliance within your own organisation.

Using highly specialised methods and innovative environmental technology, you will help to reduce emissions, recover valuable materials from waste streams or treat wastewater efficiently. Our programmes provide practical knowledge of current recycling technologies, biotechnological and chemical processes. This ensures you are ideally equipped to set the course for sustainable production and waste management processes in industry, public administration or research.

The design of sustainable mobility concepts is key to environmentally friendly cities and regions. At the FHNW, you will explore innovative transport solutions, e-mobility and the integration of mobility into sustainable urban and spatial planning. You will learn to evaluate mobility systems, implement new technologies and develop solutions that combine environmental benefits with social needs. This will enable you to actively drive forward sustainable transport concepts in companies, local authorities or organisations.

Sustainable business practices and effective resource management are essential for companies of all sizes. At the FHNW, you will expand your skills to design business models that are future-proof and circular in nature, analyse material flows, and implement material cycles in practice. You will learn to align products and services with ecological standards and to harness innovation potential.