Durham University hosts Coimbra Group Climate Symposium
20 March 2025
The Coimbra Group (CG) will formally launch the celebration of its 40th anniversary with an inaugural Climate Symposium, hosted by Durham University, from March 24th to 26th.
The central theme of the two-day Climate Symposium is the role of universities as agents of transformative change for climate, nature, planetary health, and society. Universities are at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change, drive innovation, and embed sustainability across all aspects of life. The symposium will emphasize the urgency of addressing the climate emergency through research, education, and policy engagement.
The symposium will convene Rectors, Vice-Chancellors, and distinguished guests from member universities to address pressing climate challenges and explore sustainable solutions within higher education. The event underscores the Coimbra Group’s commitment to fostering collaboration and driving impactful environmental initiatives.
Adoption of the Durham Declaration
A key highlight of the symposium will be the adoption of the “Durham Declaration on the collaboration of Coimbra Group Universities on Climate Change and Sustainability.” Jointly prepared by a dedicated Working Group at Durham University and the Coimbra Group Executive Board, with input from CG’s Rectors’ Advisory Group, this important document intends to be both inspirational and aspirational, aligning with CG universities’ sustainability strategies.
We are committed to ensuring that the Durham Declaration delivers a long-lasting legacy, shaping both the Coimbra Group’s and the wider higher education sector’s response to climate change. This Declaration will also contribute to global discussions on sustainability, including at the upcoming UNFCCC COP30 Climate Conference, reinforcing the Coimbra Group’s international influence in climate policy.
Speaking about the significance of the event, Professor Ludovic Thilly, Chair of the Coimbra Group Executive Board, stated: “The Coimbra Group Climate Symposium is a vivid embodiment of our collective responsibility as universities to lead the way in addressing climate change. The adoption of the Durham Declaration reflects our shared commitment to sustainability, reinforcing the essential role of higher education institutions in shaping a greener future. Universities are uniquely positioned to drive transformative change through education, research, and collaboration. By uniting our efforts, we can influence policy, inspire future generations, and develop tangible solutions for a more sustainable world. The Coimbra Group is proud to take this important step forward, reinforcing our role as a catalyst for meaningful change.”
Student Engagement
In the lead-up to the symposium, the ‘Eyes of the Future’ competition engaged students in envisioning sustainable futures through an app-based game developed by Utrecht University. This initiative reflects the Coimbra Group’s dedication to empowering students as catalysts for environmental change.