The Dutch universities have been making a sustained effort to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for some years now. The SDG dashboard now also makes it possible to understand to which degree this applies to various goals. The study reveals that every academic discipline at Dutch universities has made a contribution. Areas in which they are especially active include ones related to the ‘Climate Action’, ‘Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions’ and ‘Zero Hunger’ SDGs. 

In addition to the academic impact, the tool also shows the degree to which research has been used by policymakers. Policy documents contain many (references to) publications on fighting poverty, on good health and well-being, and on sustainable energy. This is 41% for publications on good health and well-being. In order to have even greater impact on policy, it is crucial that research is freely accessible. Open Access publication of such articles therefore is a primary concern, since it would allow Dutch universities to make an even greater contribution to addressing the challenges facing society.