Greeting

by Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Klaus Töpfer, former Executive Director, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Patron of the International Study Course in Environmental and Resource Management

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is built on a heritage of service to the environment. UNEP's uniqueness lies in its advocasy of environmental concerns within the international system. In this, it makes a particular effort to nurture partnerships with other UN bodies, the private sector, the scientiflc community, NGOs, youth, women, and sports organisations in the achievement of sustainable development.

It is in this spirit of UNEP, that I am endorsing the interdisciplinary and multicultural International Study Course in Environmental and Resource Management at Brandenburg University of Technology, Cottbus. Education and training is an essential precondition for preserving both our environment and natural resources, as well as for achieving sustainable development. Only with sufficient knowledge, can those acting in industry, commerce and national and international administrations put into practice the principles of sustainability.

The International Study Course in Cottbus with already more than 450 students from almost 20 countries and its interdisciplinary and integrated approach towards technological and socioeconomic aspects of environmental and resource management is a unique opportunity to acquire the knowledge required to solve the problems of the 21st century. It truly aligns with the vision of UNEP to bring about - in close cooperation with all its stakeholders - real and measurable improvements to the capacity of the world's natural resource base to support a decent quality of life.

Next to environmental aspects, social sustainability is an equally important foundation of the future. The International Study Course in Cottbus provides a unique opportunity to experience the value of to global diversity of culture and heritage. Social competence can only be the first step towards the ability to live and work in the multicultural and globalised world of tomorrow. Beyond that, personal experience and appreciation of cultural diversity in day-to-day life and studies are much needed. Studying in an international body of students, in Cottbus, as well as during the semester abroad provides ample opportunity for both, finally enabling graduates to take the wider view of the global citizen.

As the Patron of the course, I personally welcome all its students as new members of the community of those dedicated to realise our vision of an environmentally and socially sustainable future on our planet. I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone of you personally every success in your studies at Cottbus.

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Klaus Töpfer