Year theme Utrecht University: Healthy Planet
Healthy Planet is Utrecht University’s 2025 theme. Our planet is under pressure, facing complex challenges in areas such as sustainability, health and climate change. Urgent and transformative action is needed. That is why Utrecht University collaborates with numerous partners to develop sustainable solutions that promote the health of both the planet and all living beings.
The Year theme
Researchers and students from Utrecht University share their knowledge so that there is a better understanding of how we are doing. In addition, to know what we can do ourselves for a healthier planet. With a current and relevant annual theme, Utrecht University shows everyone what knowledge is being developed and how it collaborates with external partners. Staff and students from various disciplines make contributions to the annual theme during the year.
Healthy planet
The Healthy Planet theme has three main topics: sustainability, health and climate change.
- Sustainability: the sustainability crisis is a major challenge. The earth is warming, ocean temperatures are rising, and we are using too much of our natural resources. Plants and animals are also disappearing, and air, water and soil are becoming polluted. Tackling these problems requires cooperation. Utrecht University is at the forefront of sustainability. This is reflected in our research, teaching and working methods. Students and staff work together on sustainable projects, for example in living labs. More information.
- Health: To keep the planet liveable, the UU wants to look at health more broadly. It is important not only to treat problems, but above all to tackle the causes. That way, health problems can be better prevented. Innovative research into health and new treatments are being developed. In doing so, Utrecht University works closely with the UMC Utrecht and other (inter)national partners. More information.
- Climate change: climate change has major implications for people and nature worldwide. Scientists at Utrecht University study the climate, the greenhouse effect and human influence on climate change. With this knowledge, UU works on solutions for a sustainable future and a healthy planet. More information.
More on the annual theme
Check out the Healthy Planet annual theme page and find out more about the topics and activities around the theme.
Utrecht Science Park start-up Beephonix grows with the help of student workers
Utrecht Science Park start-up Beephonix is growing with support from student workers via Topselect, using its patented microphone technology for hearing implants and drone detection.
Royal honour awarded to Anton Pijpers at his farewell
At his farewell, Anton Pijpers was appointed Officer in the Order of Orange-Nassau and received multiple distinctions recognizing his exceptional contributions to Utrecht University and the region.
In the media: Utrecht Science Park as a ‘powerhouse’ of the biotech sector
Following the proposed merger of Utrecht Science Park companies Genmab and Merus, several media outlets have published articles highlighting the strength of the Utrecht Science Park ecosystem. For example, the Financieele Dagblad discussed the “biotech powerhouse” and the importance of growth opportunities to ensure this knowledge remains in the Netherlands.
Utrecht Science Week anniversary edition a great success
The fifth edition of Utrecht Science Week was a resounding success! With more programs, locations, speakers, and visitors than ever before, we look back on an exciting week. The variety of programs and the diverse audience were wonderful to witness. This way, the groundbreaking research here at Utrecht Science Park isn’t kept behind closed doors, but is given the opportunity to inspire others.