This multi-stakeholder workshop builds upon the Heidelberg Agreement, aiming to define the next steps for implementing concrete actions to advance sustainability in the funding landscape.

The agreement provides a framework for research funders to play an active role and incentivize sustainable practices in research. It outlines principles for transitioning to a more sustainable research system and practical recommendations on how to implement sustainability in funding schemes. The agreement  was published as an outcome of the EMBO workshop in May 2024. Green Labs NL is one of the endorsing organisations of the Heidelberg Agreement, amongst NWO, Wellcome Trust, UK Research and Innovation and Science Europe. 

This report presents the results of our workshop, ‘Sparking a Green Movement in the Funding Landscape’, held in September 2023. It summarizes the main challenges and key facilitators for collective action among funders. The workshop encouraged funders to take concrete steps, such as dedicating more time to sustainability efforts and fostering (inter)national collaboration. An appendix provides an overview of relevant reading materials, including websites, policies, and publications.

EMBO organised a multi-stakeholder workshop “Funders’ role in promoting environmentally sustainable lab research” in Heidelberg to explore the critical role of funders in fostering environmentally sustainable research practices. This event gathered funders, research institute representatives, tool developers, and grassroots initiatives from across Europe.

The event featured 11 funders from 3 European countries (including eight from the Netherlands), focused on addressing the main question of how funding organizations can support the transition toward just and sustainable health research. We extend warm gratitude to all organizations represented, including Knowledge Centre Global Health (kcgh), NWO, ZonMW, Oncode Institute, KIN, KWF kankerbestrijding, Health~Holland, KNAW, Ministry of Education Culture and Science, EMBO, Wellcome Trust and UK research and innovation.