In May 2011, the Executive Board of Freie Universität adopted an Environmental Mission Statement as part of its environmental management system, with which the university fulfils its responsibility to actively protect the environment. In 2021, it was revised to align with the EMAS (European Management Audit Scheme) regulation, which was amended in 2017 and 2019. The mission statement sets out the basic framework for environmental goals and is a commitment to protecting the environment and fulfilling the University's binding obligations.

The Environmental Mission Statement is as follows:

Protecting the environment in the context of the university
We at Freie Universität Berlin believe that universities have a special responsibility to ensure a livable world today and in the future. As a large and internationally oriented scientific institution, it is our duty to contribute to solving the pressing global, ecological, and social challenges in research and teaching. As a prominent educational institution, we aim to create systematic learning opportunities and experiences that will allow all university members to shape sustainable development together. We know that our credibility is measured by how well we implement exemplary sustainable solutions in our own institution. Climate protection, energy efficiency, and a commitment to avoiding and systematically reducing operational environmental impacts have long been key goals of the university. We underline this commitment with the Sustainability Mission Statement published in 2016, the Climate Emergency Declaration adopted in 2019 and the following environmental guidelines.

Continuous improvement
Our work is based on compliance with the relevant laws, regulations, requirements and sustainability-related voluntary commitments. In addition, we see environmental management as a process of continuous improvement aimed at:
•    prioritizing climate protection by using natural resources efficiently and promoting the use of renewable energy;     
•    adapting to climate change;
•    minimising, reviewing, and documenting the emissions, waste, and costs associated with resource use; and
•    ensuring the responsible handling of hazardous substances.
Overall, we are committed to continuously improve operational environmental protection.

Acting ecologically
We consider the ecological aspects of campus management, procurement, construction and operation. When making investment decisions, we aim to favor the most environmentally friendly options while taking economic efficiency into account.

Living participation
We promote innovation management and offer our staff and students various  opportunities to network and participate in sustainability-related activities within the university.

Enabling dialogue
We enable staff, students, and interested members of the public to engage in an ongoing dialogue, and we provide regular information about the ecological development at our university.