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)
- Minor Sustainable Development
- BSc, MSc, and PhD tracks in Environmental Sciences and Biology
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.
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.