Sustainability
AMOLF is committed to sustainability and to reducing its environmental impact across energy use, mobility, waste, procurement, and research practices. Our sustainability roadmap, first developed in 2021 and currently being updated, provides a framework for short- and long-term actions and guides our ambition to operate in a more resource-efficient and climate-responsible way.
A dedicated Sustainability workgroup coordinates initiatives across the institute and supports both operational and research-related efforts to reduce environmental impact, and connects with sustainability initiatives at other NWO institutes.
Energy
In recent years, AMOLF has taken important steps to reduce energy consumption and to increase the use of renewable energy. A full roof renovation completed in early 2025 incorporated white roofing materials to limit heat absorption and reduce cooling demand. In mid 2025, 536 solar panels were installed, expected to generate around 180,000 kWh per year, covering approximately 5 to 8 percent of AMOLF’s annual electricity use.
Resource efficiency remains a priority: whenever building systems such as pumps, fans, or lighting require replacement, AMOLF transitions to more efficient alternatives. Ongoing replacement of fluorescent lighting by LED lighting in offices further contributes to reduced energy consumption.
Mobility
Mobility is another major focus area. Thanks to hybrid working, increased use of public transport, bicycles, and electric vehicles, CO₂ emissions from commuting have decreased significantly since 2019. Emissions from business travel have also decreased, and AMOLF continues to encourage more sustainable travel choices, especially within Europe.
Waste
Waste reduction and circular use of materials are supported through clear waste-separation instructions, reduced use of disposable products, and institute-wide sharing of chemicals to minimize unused materials. Further progress will depend on improved monitoring of waste streams, which AMOLF aims to develop in the coming years.
Awareness and everyday practice
To strengthen awareness and embed sustainability in daily practice, AMOLF continues to invest in communication, training, and monitoring. The Sustainability Workgroup plays a key role in coordinating initiatives, sharing best practices, and supporting staff in making more sustainable choices in both operations and research activities.
A more sustainable future
With the support of sustainability advisors within NWO and NWO-I (the institutes organization of NWO – the Dutch Research Council), AMOLF aims to further accelerate its sustainability efforts, identify new opportunities, and secure the resources to prepare its building, operations, and research environment for a more sustainable future.
Sustainability is also an important aspect of AMOLF’s scientific research, reflected for example in our focus on the research theme Sustainable Energy Materials.
Contact
If you have any questions about our policy, please contact our program office.
