Sustainability

Sustainability is the urgent pursuit of practices that maintain ecological balance, promote social equity, and ensure economic viability. It addresses pressing global challenges like resource depletion, pollution, and social inequality, aiming to secure a better future for all.

Learn more about sustainability

The School of Engineering is dedicated to advancing EPFL’s leadership in sustainability, with innovative research and initiatives that promote a greener future.

Our experts

Our experts are driving EPFL’s leadership in sustainability, conducting cutting-edge research in sustainable materials, processes, and energy solutions.

Our laboratories

Our state-of-the-art laboratories are instrumental in bolstering EPFL’s leadership in sustainability, spearheading innovative research across sustainable materials, processes, and energy solutions.

Our spinoffs

Delve into the forefront of sustainable innovation with our pioneering startups. These dynamic ventures, cultivated within our ecosystem, are leading the charge in developing transformative solutions that are reshaping the sustainability landscape.

Centers

We’re proud collaborators with EPFL’s premier centers committed to propelling sustainable solutions forward. These collaborative hubs stand at the vanguard of research, catalyzing innovations in renewable energy, smart grids, and beyond.

Education

Uncover unmatched opportunities for education, research, and hands-on experience available at the School of Engineering. Become a part of the upcoming generation of sustainability pioneers, contributing to a world driven by pioneering solutions.

NEWS

Embark on a journey of sustainability with the latest updates from the School of Engineering. Our multidisciplinary teams are at the forefront of driving innovations aimed at fostering positive societal impact. Explore the latest news on groundbreaking advancements in sustainable materials, processes, energy solutions, and more as we pave the way towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Karen Scrivener receives her award from Christian Paglia, director of SUPSI's Institute of Materials and Constructions © SUPSI 2025

Karen Scrivener honored at SUPSI

— On March 25th, Karen Scrivener, head of the Laboratory of Construction Materials in the School of Engineering, received a special award for her scientific contribution to the development of sustainable cementitious materials from SUPSI, the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland. 

Karen Mulleners with her lab's flexible membrane wing © Alain Herzog

Bat wings boost hovering efficiency

— EPFL researchers have designed flexible, batlike wings that boost lift and improve flight performance. This innovation could lead to more efficient drones or energy-harvesting technologies.

© 2024 EPFL

Three School of Engineering faculty members appointed

— The Board of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology has announced the appointment of professors at EPFL, including three new faculty in the School of Engineering.

© Titouan Veuillet

Materials in Motion

— A new permanent exhibition in the School of Engineering's Institute of Materials (IMX) brings research materials out of the lab and into an artistic context.

© 2024 Giulia Tagliabue

Giulia Tagliabue wins Latsis University Award EPFL 2024

— School of Engineering professor Giulia Tagliabue, head of the Laboratory of Nanoscience for Energy Technologies (LNET) received the 2024 Latsis University prize for EPFL for her exceptional achievements in nanophotonics for sustainable energy generation, which push the boundaries of scientific knowledge and contribute directly to solving some of the most pressing challenges of today.

All news

VIDEOS

Tune into a series of enlightening videos featuring insights from our esteemed experts, dedicated research teams, and dynamic startups leading the charge in sustainable innovation. Prepare to delve into the future of sustainable technologies and join us in the journey towards shaping a greener, more efficient world.

Fabrication of a sensorized raspberry “Physical Twin” for training harvesting robots in the lab

Turning plastic waste into building bricks

Self-healing composites extend a product’s lifespan

New nanowire architectures boost computers’ processing power

Transforming surplus feedstocks and waste streams into innovative, eco-friendly materials.

Mimicking nature to create eco-friendly materials that reflect beautiful, iridescent hues.