Together for a Sustainable Future

The German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) takes responsibility for the environment and society. We recognize climate change as one of the greatest challenges of our time and are committed to acting sustainably. Our guiding principle, "AI for People", means giving equal consideration to environmental sustainability, social justice, and economic efficiency. That is why we integrate sustainability into all areas of our work, from research and project planning to human resource management and the transfer of knowledge and technologies.

Sustainable Research

Development of solutions that create social and environmental value.

Resource-Efficient Operations

Efficient use of energy, infrastructure, and resources.

Responsible Organizational Culture and Leadership

Embedding sustainable principles into everyday practices.

Knowledge and Technology Transfer & Societal Dialogue

Active exchange with policymakers, industry, and the public.

Sustainable Human Resource Development

Promoting diversity, equal opportunities, and fair career paths.

Our sustainability efforts are guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), bringing together research, organizational practices, and knowledge transfer to society. Through existing DFKI structures such as DFKI4planet: AI for the Environment and Sustainability, the Ethics Team, the Diversity and Gender Equality Working Group, and clearly defined compliance structures, we lay the foundation for responsible action. These efforts are further supported by guidelines for good scientific practice, the promotion of early-career researchers, and our commitment to Open Source and Open Access.

Dr. Kristine Oevel, DFKI Sustainability Manager

“Sustainability is not a nice-to-have for us, but an integral part of our research, organization, and knowledge transfer. We create knowledge that not only provides answers but also shapes the future.”
Dr. Kristine Oevel, DFKI Sustainability Manager

Janina Schneider, DFKI4planet Coordinator

“Sustainability requires collaboration. With DFKI4planet, we create spaces where expertise comes together and new ideas emerge. This enables us to develop solutions that are not only technologically innovative but also actively contribute to sustainability and the protection of our planet.”
Janina Schneider, DFKI4planet Coordinator

Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a global framework for responsible action. As a research organization, we strive to contribute to achieving these goals through innovative solutions, open science, and organizational structures that promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability.