Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML)
About us
Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML)
Our Mission
The Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) at Leiden University is dedicated to optimizing human well-being within the constraints of planetary boundaries. We aim to remain a global leader in sustainability science, focusing on balancing socio-economic development with environmental preservation.
Research Focus
Our research is characterized by:
- Systems Approach: Integrating ecosystems and socio-technical systems analysis
- Multi-Scale Analysis: Conducting studies from local to global levels
- Methodological Innovation: Developing cutting-edge tools and techniques in environmental science
- Policy Impact: Translating scientific findings into high-level policy recommendations
Key Research Areas
- Industrial Ecology and Circular Economy
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
- Environmental Biology and Ecotoxicology
- Sustainable Resource Management
- Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation
International Diversity
Established in 1978, CML has grown into a vibrant, international scientific community:
- Approximately 100 staff members, 140 PhD candidates and 60 guest researchers
- Over 20 nationalities represented
- Strong integration of research and education
Educational Programs
We are committed to educating future change-makers in sustainability. Our programs include:
- MSc in Industrial Ecology (joint program with TU Delft)
- MSc in Governance of Sustainability (collaboration with Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs)
- BSc Science for Sustainable Societies (launching 2025)
- BSc, MSc, and PhD tracks in Environmental Sciences and Biology
- Minor Sustainable Development
Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address current and future sustainability challenges effectively.
Strategic Partnerships
Leiden-Delft-Erasmus (LDE) Centre for Sustainability
CML leads the LDE Centre for Sustainability, an interdisciplinary collaboration between:
- Leiden University
- Delft University of Technology
- Erasmus University Rotterdam
This partnership aims to accelerate the transition to a circular economy and sustainable society, offering expertise to organizations pursuing sustainability goals.
Leiden Biodiversity Network/ Liveable Planet
Partners related to these regional networks are Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, different institutes within Leiden University from various Faculties and the regional BioSciencePartners + municipality + province South Holland:
- Collaborative research projects
- Cross-appointment of staff members
- Shared resources and expertise in biodiversity research
Impact and Innovation
CML is committed to:
- Developing innovative methodologies in life cycle assessment, material flow analysis, and ecological modeling
- Providing evidence-based solutions for sustainable development
- Fostering interdisciplinary collaborations to address complex environmental challenges
- Bridging the gap between scientific research and practical policy implementation
Through our integrated approach to research, education, and partnerships, CML aims to drive meaningful progress towards a sustainable future for our planet and its inhabitants.