The Greenreality partnership network, coordinated by the City of Lappeenranta, includes companies and organizations committed to environmentally friendly practices in their operations. The Student Union of LUT University (LTKY) is an advocate for students’ interests and a developer and maintainer of student culture.

According to Katja Immonen, Chair of the 2025 Board of the Student Union of LUT University, LTKY is active in both Lappeenranta and Lahti, as well as nationally in cooperation with other student unions. Immonen highlights that themes of responsibility have become especially important in the student union’s activities in the early 2020s. That is why the student union originally joined the Greenreality partnership.

“The student union supports a more sustainable future through its activities, which is also reflected in its policies and decisions. The student union is plant-based, and we work with other student unions to help all students make green choices in their everyday lives.”

Future Experts as Part of Local Climate Action

From the Greenreality partnership, the student union expects opportunities to connect with local companies and participate in interesting training sessions.

“Our graduates are highly skilled professionals for whom climate themes are important. We hope that interactions with local companies will spark discussions and encourage mutual progress on these topics,” says Immonen.

As a Greenreality partner, LTKY is committed to offering only plant-based food at its events. All waste, including plastics, is sorted at the office. Many goals have already been achieved during the partnership, and LTKY plans to continue sharing its knowledge and inspiring others.

“There are numerous associations and organizations on our campus, and we provide them with guidance and encouragement to consider environmental issues.”

The Student Union of LUT University has also set a goal to identify all aspects of responsibility and integrate them into its daily operations. LTKY actively participates in the climate network of the national student organization SYL.

“We have calculated our own carbon footprint to understand where to focus our efforts in reducing emissions. We make bold initiatives and encourage other organizations to take responsible actions by leading through example,” Immonen explains.