SDG 11 – Sustainable cities and communities

Università IULM provides public access to its buildings, monuments or natural heritage landscapes of cultural significance.

IULM in fact guarantees public access to all of its buildings, and it is possible to participate in guided tours of the campus. These tours are tailored to give visitors a better understanding of the university’s structure and life on campus.

Additionally, IULM opened the Silvio Federico Baridon garden, a 10,000 square meter green space, to the local community after its renovation in 2019. This area offers workout equipment, a soccer field, an accessible playground for children with disabilities, a dog-friendly space, and a social gathering area with tables and benches.

Moreover, in October 2023, IULM inaugurated TAM TAM, a permanent exhibition called the Museo Diffuso della Comunicazione. The first installation, by artist Ugo Nespolo, is open to the public and transforms the university's campus into an exhibition space, promoting communication in various forms. This museum is designed not only for the university community but also for the general public. Through such initiatives, IULM actively engages with the wider public, fostering accessibility to its cultural heritage and spaces.

Università IULM provides public access to its libraries, including books and publications. The IULM Library, located in the IULM 1 building, offers several facilities across different floors. These include 350 seats in reading rooms, a consultation room for non-loanable materials, and 50 multimedia stations for accessing digital resources.

The library’s home loan service is available to IULM students, staff, and external users. Borrowing requests can be made through the Digger catalog, with flexible lending periods depending on the material type. Interlibrary loans, reservation systems, and extensions are also available.

Additionally, Apeiron, IULM's institutional repository, provides free access to research works conducted at the university since 2000. These materials can be consulted online by entering search parameters like author or title.

To demonstrate the real-world impact of these resources, in 2023, the IULM Library recorded 6,252 loans/consultations, and 156 external users accessed the library. This data highlights significant public engagement and the practical reach of IULM’s educational resources.

Università IULM actively provides public access to exhibition spaces, art installations, and cultural events, reinforcing its commitment to the arts and community engagement. For example, IULM recently inaugurated TAM TAM – Teatro delle Arti Mediali, an innovative installation and part of the university’s new Museum of Communication. TAM TAM, located on campus, was created in collaboration with prominent companies and is free for public access, showcasing the societal impact of communication.

Another notable initiative is Visioni Tattili – Arte e Materia, a collaborative exhibition with ALCANTARA, the renowned design company. Open to the public and hosted on IULM’s campus from April to May 2023, this exhibit highlighted the artistic and functional versatility of Alcantara material. Through these exhibitions, IULM offers the public, including students, access to thought-provoking installations, linking contemporary art and innovation. These exhibitions - accessible to the public - emphasize IULM’s dedication to fostering creativity and cultural appreciation within and beyond the university community.

Università IULM provides free public access to open and green spaces. One notable example is the Silvio Federico Baridon Garden, a 10,000-square-meter green area located in the southern part of Milan. After its redevelopment in 2019, the space was opened to the public as a community asset. The garden includes workout equipment, a synthetic turf soccer field, a playground accessible to children with disabilities, a designated dog area, and an outdoor seating area with benches and tables under a pergola, making it usable year-round.

This green space serves as an accessible and inclusive environment for the IULM community and the wider public.

Università IULM contributes to local arts through various public performances and cultural initiatives. The IULM Theatre Group regularly organizes workshops, masterclasses, and performances that are open to both students and the public. These events promote artistic engagement and cultural enrichment within the community.

Additionally, the IULM Choir, founded in 2019, consists of university faculty, students, graduates, and employees, and regularly performs publicly. These performances reflect IULM's active role in contributing to local arts, providing opportunities for both internal and external audiences to experience and participate in the university's cultural activities.

Università IULM delivers projects to record and preserve intangible cultural heritage such as local folklore, traditions, language, and knowledge. For instance, the university is actively involved in a mission in Peru focused on researching and preserving the ancient culture of the Andean region. This project, part of IULM's "Popoli indigeni del Centro e Sud America" initiative, includes archaeological work at the Tumshukayko site, which dates back to 3000 BC. The project collaborates with local communities, engaging them in excavation efforts and respecting their role as the current custodians of the area's heritage.

The research has improved the topography of the area, gained insight into the construction sequence of a portion of the main ceremonial platform, a huge man-made construction more than 50 meters high, and identified a new area of monumental architecture never previously explored (the so-called B satellite). Many other potentially similar areas located in the vicinity of the main complex have also been identified. The potential of research at this impressive site, partly hidden under the present Caraz, is slowly unraveling.

This mission not only contributes to archaeological research but also supports the preservation of indigenous cultural knowledge and traditions.

Università IULM measures and sets targets for more sustainable commuting. In its Strategic Plan for the period 2022-2024, the university has specifically outlined a key commitment to exploring partnerships that promote sustainable mobility (page 45). One such target is the activation of agreements to encourage the use of electric vehicles.

IULM has implemented several initiatives to support sustainable commuting for students and staff, including partnerships with: 

• Trenitalia, offering a 20% discount through the "Welfare Plus" program for students on private train travel.
• Drivalia, providing discounted access to a 100% electric vehicle fleet, which allows free parking in city zones and access to electrified airport parking.
• Enjoy, in partnership with ENI, offering students discounted rates on the Enjoy vehicle-sharing service, encouraging shared and electric vehicle use.

These initiatives align with IULM's strategic goals of promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions for the university community.

Università IULM actively undertakes actions to promote more sustainable commuting. In its Strategic plan, the university has committed to exploring partnerships to promote sustainable mobility, particularly focusing on encouraging the use of electric vehicles.

IULM has established several initiatives to support sustainable commuting for both students and staff staff (who are constantly informed about all the initiatives through the IULM website and main channels), including: 

• Trenitalia: Offering a 20% discount for students through the "Welfare Plus" program on private train travel, encouraging the use of public transport.
• Drivalia: Providing discounted access to a 100% electric vehicle fleet, with free parking in restricted city zones and reserved electric parking spaces at airports.
• Enjoy: In collaboration with ENI, offering discounted rates for vehicle-sharing services, promoting the use of shared vehicles.

Università IULM facilitates pedestrian and public transport access to the campus which has undergone a renovation that includes the following:

• The access and routing of cyclists and pedestrians (many arriving by public transport) have been given priority to provide an attractive option that highlights the importance placed on encouraging such travel behaviour. The entire perimeter of the campus and Via Carlo Bo, one of the main streets, have been made pedestrian friendly;
• All pedestrian routes provide clear and consistent facilities to a building's entrance/s;
• Any pedestrian and cycle routes are linked up to any current or future facility/service (both of the University and the city);
• Routes also consider the access from public transport facilities, including the Viale cassala bus stop, the Romolo subway stop , the Romolo train station, the trolleybus stop; 

These initiatives reflect IULM's commitment to i ncreasing the percentage of sustainable commuting options, encouraging the use of electric vehicles, and reducing reliance on traditional, less eco-friendly modes of transport.

Università IULM actively allows and promotes telecommuting and remote working  for employees as a standard practice to reduce employee commuting. According to the new collective labor contract, remote working has been formally adopted, allowing employees to telecommute for up to two days per week. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support work-life balance and reduce the need for commuting, helping to improve the overall well-being and productivity of IULM staff.

In addition, the updated contract includes various employee benefits, such as increased salaries, enhanced health insurance coverage, an upgraded meal allowance, and contributions to supplementary pensions, all aimed at fostering a supportive and flexible working environment.

By reducing the need for daily commuting, these telecommuting policies contribute to lower carbon emissions and reduced traffic congestion, aligning with IULM's sustainability goals and supporting broader environmental initiatives.

Università IULM provides affordable housing for employees. According to the "Regolamento Servizio di Foresteria" IULM offers accommodation to faculty, researchers, professionals, and visiting students, both Italian and foreign, to facilitate their stay for teaching and research purposes. The housing is available at IULM’s university residences, Santander and Cascina Moncucco, which are equipped with essential amenities like private bathrooms, kitchens, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. The goal is to support the academic and professional needs of its staff by offering convenient and affordable lodging options. The housing is provided at reduced rental rates compared to local market prices, ensuring that staff and visiting academics have access to budget-friendly living arrangements that support their professional work and integration into the IULM community.

Università IULM provides affordable housing for students. IULM offers a variety of housing options to support students, particularly those from outside the city, ensuring access to suitable, affordable accommodations. These include:

• University Residences: IULM offers its students housing in university-managed residences such as Santander and Cascina Moncucco. These residences offer a range of services, including laundry, common kitchens, internet, and 24-hour reception, at affordable rates. The rental rates range from 300 to 430 euros per month, which is much lower than the average cost of accommodation in Milan (around 700 euros), strengthening the claim of affordability and providing concrete support.
• Housing Partners: IULM has collaborations with Collegiate, Dotstay, Zappyrent, Erasmusu, and Welcome Home, providing discounts and verified accommodations, allowing students to find safe, affordable housing in Milan.

IULM is committed to ensuring more affordable housing for students in the future, in fact IULM’s Rector, Gianni Canova, also joined a strategic meeting with Milan's Mayor, Giuseppe Sala, and the rectors of eight Milanese universities to address student housing challenges. The collaboration set a goal of increasing student accommodation in Milan by 10,000 units over the next few years, a coordinated effort to keep student housing costs manageable and improve additional services like transportation for students across the city.

IULM's extensive network and discounted housing programs help ensure that students have access to affordable housing during their academic journey in Milan.

Università IULM prioritizes pedestrian access on campus, in particular the campus has undergone a renovation that includes the following:

• The access and routing of cyclists and pedestrians (many arriving by public transport) have been given priority to provide an attractive option that highlights the importance placed on encouraging such travel behaviour. The entire perimeter of the campus and Via Carlo Bo, one of the main streets have been made pedestrian friendly;
• All pedestrian routes provide clear and consistent facilities to a building's entrance/s;
• Any pedestrian and cycle routes are linked up to any current or future facility/service (both of the University and the city);
• Routes also consider the access from public transport facilities, including the Viale cassala bus stop, the Romolo subway stop , the Romolo train station, the trolleybus stop; 

By prioritizing pedestrian access, IULM supports environmental sustainability through reduced carbon emissions and improved air quality, promoting eco-friendly commuting and contributing to a healthier urban environment. These initiatives align with IULM's broader sustainability goals, reinforcing its commitment to a greener campus and city.

Università IULM collaborates closely with local authorities to address urban planning and development issues, including initiatives to improve access to affordable housing for students and local residents.

Università IULM has partnered with the Municipality of Milan for the renovation of the entire neighborhood surrounding the university. This significant redevelopment included the construction of the university campus, the Silvio Federico Baridon Garden—a 10,000-square-meter green space offering recreational facilities—and the Cascina Moncucco residence, which provides affordable housing options for students. These projects have revitalized the area, contributing to the local community’s social and ecological well-being while creating a more connected and vibrant urban environment.

One key example is IULM’s participation in a strategic meeting with Milan’s Mayor, Giuseppe Sala, and other university rectors. The goal of this collaboration is to add 10,000 student housing units in the city over the coming years to address the high demand and rising housing costs. This joint effort includes defining new initiatives to enhance students' quality of life in Milan, like improving access to transportation and essential services. The plan also includes working with private housing providers to control rental costs for student accommodations.

In addition to student housing, IULM is engaged in urban revitalization projects for underserved areas. Through the "Fabbrica di Quartiere" project, IULM, in collaboration with the Politecnico di Milano and local businesses, has been involved in strategic research and planning for the redevelopment of Milan’s southeastern districts, focusing on enhancing social, cultural, and economic vitality. This interdisciplinary project includes proposals for public space improvements, ecological connectivity, and creating inclusive services to better integrate local communities. IULM's Rector, Gianni Canova, has highlighted this project as a prime example of collaborative, community-focused urban development that leverages local insights and resources.

IULM’s contributions to these initiatives underscore its commitment to working with local authorities to address housing and urban planning challenges, ensuring that development projects serve both students and the broader community effectively.

Università IULM builds new buildings to sustainable standards. A key example is the Cascina Moncucco restoration project, a 17th-century farmhouse that had fallen into disrepair but was revitalized by IULM. This initiative not only transformed the space into a residence for 100 students and a cultural hub but also emphasized sustainability throughout the restoration process.

In 2017, the Cascina Moncucco project achieved Silver certification under the LEED Italia 2009 NC system, which evaluates environmental sustainability and energy efficiency in construction projects. The contractor, Euganea Restauri Srl, in collaboration with Tecservice Srl and LEEDme of Strategie Srl, led the certification process, ensuring the project met rigorous sustainability standards.

Specific energy efficiency measures were implemented, focusing on the building's envelope and systems while adhering to the constraints of its historical status. Additionally, the building excels in water performance, using low-flow fixtures that reduce potable water use by 50% compared to standard buildings. A rainwater collection tank with over 90 cubic meters capacity was also installed to store water for irrigation, eliminating the use of potable water for landscaping.

Università IULM has been planning the development of a new building, IULM 8, which will adhere to sustainable building standards set by the city of Milan. This project underscores IULM's continuous commitment to environmentally responsible construction practices, aiming to incorporate cutting-edge energy efficiency and resource management measures. By planning for IULM 8, the university solidifies its role as a leader in sustainable urban development and demonstrates its proactive approach to future-proofing its infrastructure against environmental challenges.

This project demonstrates IULM’s commitment to sustainable building practices while preserving historical structures, providing positive environmental impacts in the surrounding urban area.

Università IULM builds on brownfield sites where possible. A prime example is the Cascina Moncucco project. Originally an abandoned 17th-century farmhouse located in a degraded area, Cascina Moncucco has been completely restored and repurposed by IULM to serve as a student residence and cultural hub.

This restoration project was made possible through a combination of IULM's own funds, contributions from the Ministry of Education, University and Research, the Lombardy Region, and the Municipality of Milan. The Cascina Moncucco now serves dual purposes: providing accommodation for students and organizing cultural and educational activities for the local community, promoting urban sustainability.

The project demonstrates IULM's commitment to revitalizing abandoned or underutilized historical spaces and integrating them into the urban landscape as functional, sustainable environments. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to reduce environmental impact, as the site promotes alternative mobility (with secure bicycle storage instead of new parking) and has received the LEED Silver certification for its sustainability and energy-saving features. 

IULM has also developed the building IULM 6, designed on a brownfield site to further support sustainable urban regeneration. This building project, characterized by innovative design and multifunctional spaces, reflects IULM’s approach to integrating architecture with sustainable urban planning. Prioritizing eco-friendly solutions such as optimized building materials and energy-efficient systems, these initiatives showcase IULM's commitment to low environmental impact, fostering urban renewal while minimizing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development.

These projects demonstrate IULM’s dedication to converting underutilized spaces into vibrant, sustainable facilities, reinforcing its role in responsible urban development.