Established in 1911, De La Salle University Inc. (DLSU) is a leading Philippine higher education institution founded by the Catholic teaching congregation Brothers of the Christian Schools. It envisions being a learner-centered and research-driven university that bridges faith and scholarship, promotes sustainability, and serves the Church and society, especially the poor and marginalized.
Commitment to Sustainability
DLSU upholds sustainability not just at an institutional level but also through student and employee participation. By collaborating with local government units and key stakeholders, the university ensures long-term sustainability strategies that address social, environmental, and financial development.
Sustainability in Education and Campus Operations
From 2018 to 2019, DLSU introduced 18 new environment and sustainability-related undergraduate and graduate courses. Sustainability is also integrated into the academic curriculum to instill responsible practices and support environmental stewardship.
The university was one of the first in the Philippines to ban Styrofoam, followed by a complete ban on single-use plastics on campus, setting a precedent for other institutions.
Campus Sustainability Office and Research Centers
DLSU’s Campus Sustainability Office (CSO) plays a key role in promoting education and research for sustainable development while monitoring and mitigating environmental impacts from campus operations.
The university has 11 research centers covering business, governance, social development, natural sciences, and information technology, all working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Localizing the SDGs
DLSU collaborates with local governments in Manila and Lian, Batangas, to implement community care initiatives aligned with the SDGs. It was the first educational institution to adopt the BERDE Green Building Rating System in 2015 and is a member of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN).
Through its “SDG City Lab,” DLSU provides research and capacity-building support to local government units (LGUs), helping them institutionalize SDG-based targets in governance. The ultimate goal is to create self-reliant communities with sustainable economic, social, and environmental development.
Leading Sustainability in Higher Education
In 2019, DLSU hosted the ASEAN+3 #WeCAN International Bootcamp, bringing together students, mentors, and faculty to advance sustainable and inclusive development in higher education institutions.
Globally, DLSU is recognized as one of the most sustainable universities. In the 2021 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, which assessed 1,240 institutions from 98 countries, DLSU ranked:
• Top 200 in Clean Water and Sanitation, and Life Below Water
• Top 400 in Partnership for the Goals
• Top 600 in Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Future Initiatives
DLSU is set to launch its first certificate course in Strategic Leadership and Management of Non-Government Organizations. This program will train community leaders in ethical leadership, governance, partnership-building, resource generation, and strategic communication, empowering them to sustain the reforms initiated by DLSU.
Through continuous innovation and collaboration, DLSU remains at the forefront of sustainability, setting an example for other institutions and contributing to a more sustainable future.
