Anhalt University has set itself the goal to address sustainability targets in all research projects by 2025. In order to meet the major challenges facing both the economy and society, the majority of these projects shall involve collaborative interdisciplinary work between at least two of the university’s departments, thus fostering innovative solutions. In this way it is hoped to overcome approaches restricted to certain sectors only. Furthermore, by consistently implementing an Open Access strategy, access to knowledge and innovations will be ensured. Research itself will also take the lead from other sectors of society and aim to conserve resources by implementing energy-efficiency measures. The process of becoming a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions university is backed up by a number of pilot research projects.