Sustainability at the Robert Bosch Stiftung

We believe sustainability starts with us. That’s why we take responsibility by integrating economic, environmental, and social considerations into every decision we make. To strengthen our own sustainability performance, we have defined five priority areas that guide our work: resource conservation, diversity, employees, good governance, and transparency. 

Our goal is clear: by 2030, we aim to cut our greenhouse gas emissions by at least half compared to our 2019 baseline. Since then, we have been systematically tracking our emissions in line with the internationally recognized Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG). This detailed analysis shows us exactly where emissions occur—and where targeted measures can make the biggest difference.

We have already implemented a range of initiatives to avoid or reduce emissions wherever possible. These include switching to green electricity, improving energy efficiency in our offices, prioritizing train travel for business trips, introducing vegetarian days in our cafeteria, reducing food waste through pre-ordering, installing EV charging stations, and subsidizing bike leasing and public transport tickets.

Diversity, equity, and a strong sense of belonging are central to who we are as a foundation. We are convinced that diverse perspectives, experiences, and life realities enrich our work and lead to better solutions. 

Through our diversity strategy, we are actively working to strengthen inclusion—both within our organization and partnerships, and across the German and international philanthropic landscape. In practice, this means fostering a work environment free from discrimination, making diversity visible, and ensuring it is meaningfully embedded in our structures and processes. In doing so, we create the conditions for effective, forward-looking solutions in a diverse society.

A healthy and attractive working environment is the foundation of everything we do. We create the conditions for our employees to grow, take responsibility, and achieve impact together. 

Our organization thrives on the commitment and diversity of its people: around 170 employees in Stuttgart and Berlin are dedicated to shaping social change. 

We cultivate a culture built on trust, collaboration, and personal development. Flexible working models, a wide range of learning opportunities, and comprehensive benefits help our employees stay motivated and maintain a healthy work–life balance.

Responsible and fair conduct is the cornerstone of our work. We follow clearly defined rules, transparent processes, and binding standards that apply to all employees and partners alike. 

Our Code of Conduct provides clear guidance for acting with integrity in everyday work and in our interactions with others. It ensures that decisions are transparent, compliant with the law, and aligned with our values. At the same time, we are committed to a respectful and safe working environment. Our policies on preventing violence and sexual harassment strengthen protection and foster a culture of awareness and accountability. 

In this way, we build trust—internally and externally—and ensure that our work remains credible and impactful. 

As a member of the Transparent Civil Society Initiative, we make key information about our work publicly accessible. This fosters trust and ensures that our activities are open and understandable. 

We also promote transparency internally through regular dialogue, enabling us to address trade-offs constructively—for example, by carefully weighing the need for business travel or conferences against our climate goals.