The International Sustainability Academy (ISA) exemplifies how strategic partnerships can propel the mission of sustainable development, addressing pressing global challenges such as climate action, economic equality, and environmental protection. Over the past seven years, ISA has fostered collaborations with universities, alumni networks, and businesses, driving impactful initiatives aligned with the Global Goals. These partnerships underscore the importance of collective action and the role of the global society in creating a sustainable future.
University collaborations: Knowledge meets innovation
In 2024, ISA solidified its partnership with the University of Hamburg through the integration of the “Sustainable Startups in Emerging Economies” course, led by Prof. Dr. Kay Peters. This innovative programme bridges academic insights and real-world applications, fostering sustainable business models tailored to cultural and ecological contexts.
The course connects students and ISA fellows, with significant contributions from individuals like:
Sushmita Krishnan (India): Developing paper solutions using water hyacinth fibres in collaboration with Prof. Bodo Saake.
Nondas Ferreira da Silva (Brazil): Advancing ecosystem restoration and intercultural sustainability strategies under Dr. Walter Leal's guidance.
Chimwemwe Tembo (Malawi): Gaining hands-on experience in sustainable aquaculture at Auschauteichen ponds, Eschede.
Such initiatives demonstrate the transformative potential of interdisciplinary learning and international cooperation.
Alumni engagement: Connecting global changemakers
The ISA Alumni Network (ISA AN) expanded its reach in 2024, collaborating with Alumniportal Deutschland to host impactful events. An online panel on food security attracted over 300 participants, enabling a global exchange on sustainability topics. These engagements underscore the vital role alumni play as ambassadors of justice and strong institutions, fostering solutions that address social justice and economic equality.
Business partnerships: Driving practical solutions
In 2024, ISA’s partnerships with businesses created new opportunities for practical applications of sustainable practices:
Madan Poudel (Nepal): Engaging with Gut & Bösel to promote regenerative agriculture and circular economy models.
Sally Masha (Kenya): Contributing to intercultural social work with VIA-Regionalverband Berlin/Brandenburg e.V.
These collaborations integrate science and innovative technologies, empowering individuals to implement tangible solutions and contributing to long-term sustainability.
ISA fellows exemplify the impact of these partnerships:
Sushmita Krishnan’s project uses the invasive water hyacinth to train women and youth in producing value-added products such as bags and mats, fostering entrepreneurship and promoting aquatic ecosystem restoration.
Nondas Ferreira da Silva works on capacity-building and ecosystem restoration in Brazil's Cerrado biome, empowering indigenous and traditional populations.
Madan Poudel explores Web3, Regenerative Finance, and Carbon Financing to transform food systems and incentivise sustainable farming practices.
Addressing global challenges requires coordinated efforts from the global society, leveraging shared resources and expertise. Programmes like those led by ISA highlight the importance of international collaboration in advancing climate action, promoting peace and justice, and ensuring a sustainable future for all. By uniting academia, businesses, and changemakers, ISA exemplifies how collective action can create lasting impact.
ISA’s expanding partnerships demonstrate the power of collaboration in addressing the world's most urgent challenges. By integrating education, business innovation, and community engagement, the organisation continues to drive progress towards the Global Goals. Support for such initiatives ensures access to interdisciplinary learning, innovative technologies, and scalable sustainable projects.
Learn more about ISA’s mission and explore ways to contribute to global sustainability efforts by visiting their website or connecting with ongoing initiatives.