Shaping sustainable transformation through research. Taking responsibility within our own organization.
The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology collaborates with companies and public institutions to develop solutions for the key challenges of our time. At the same time, we are working to make our own facilities and processes socially responsible and resource-efficient. We report transparently on our key sustainability issues, measures, and progress.
OUR CONTRIBUTION: RESEARCH AND OUR OWN OPERATIONS
At AIT, sustainability has two closely linked aspects. Through applied research, we support partners in making infrastructure, technologies, and processes future-proof. Our research focuses on resilient and sustainable infrastructure as well as the digital transformation of the economy and society.
The way we work also matters. Operating research infrastructure requires energy and resources. As an employer, we shape working conditions and development opportunities for our employees. In our procurement and collaboration with partners, we make decisions that have an impact beyond AIT. We systematically assess these impacts and continue to develop our sustainability management.
Environment and Resources
We track our company’s energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions and are working on measures to reduce them. Other topics include the development of our sites, responsible water and waste management, sustainable procurement, and mobility. This also includes further expanding the data foundation for indirect greenhouse gas emissions along the value chain. To achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, AIT is developing a phased transition plan.
People and the Work Environment
Our employees are the foundation of our research and development. That is why we focus, among other things, on workplace safety, diversity, and continuing education and professional development. In the sustainability report, we disclose selected key performance indicators on these topics.
Responsible Corporate Governance
Clear responsibilities, binding guidelines, and acting with integrity form the foundation of our collaboration. Sustainability Management [BG1] provides strategic direction and [BG2] coordinates cross-departmental efforts, while the respective departments implement measures within their areas of responsibility. We analyzed which topics are particularly material[BG3] to AIT in consultation with stakeholders.
MAKING PROGRESS TRACEABLE
The 2025 Sustainability Report establishes a foundation for further development. It contains information and key performance indicators on environmental, social, and governance issues and covers not only AIT but also its subsidiaries: the Ranshofen Light Metal Competence Center (LKR), Seibersdorf Laboratory (SL), and Nuclear Engineering Seibersdorf (NES).
AIT reports voluntarily and regularly. The reported data points are based on the VS(ME) standard. Selected aspects are further elaborated in accordance with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS). We use the results to identify areas requiring action, further develop measures, and make progress visible.
