Forging a sustainable path: the QualEnv consortium's practices and strategies in promoting sustainable development in higher education institutions
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 25 June 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Higher education institutions (HEIs) have a pivotal role in global sustainable development. The purpose of this study is to assess the QualEnv Consortium's contributions (QualEnv, a cooperative network of 16 universities across several countries, aimed to promote sustainability within HEIs). This paper focuses on three key objectives: illustrating QualEnv's successful, replicable sustainability strategies, highlighting their application and outcomes and contributing to the discourse on sustainable practices in HEIs.
Design/methodology/approach
This research uses qualitative and exploratory methods to provide an in-depth view of sustainability practices and strategies within universities. This study relies on documentation, specifically the “Sustainability Handbooks” of the QualEnv project, as a source of evidence.
Findings
This study reveals that the QualEnv Consortium's strategies have significantly improved the environmental and social performance of participating HEIs. Notably, this research identifies substantial enhancements in key sustainability metrics, including reduced carbon emissions, increased adoption of eco-friendly practices and stronger community engagement.
Research limitations/implications
This study has some limitations. First, the choice of a qualitative methodological approach may constrain the generalizability of the findings. Another relevant limitation is related to the uniformity in adopting sustainable practices. The effectiveness of actions linked to the Sustainable Development Goals may depend on consistency in implementation among participating universities, and variations in this aspect can affect the direct comparison of adopted strategies.
Originality/value
This research contributes to the sustainability in higher education field by comprehensively examining the QualEnv Consortium's innovative approach. By focusing on QualEnv's experiences and outcomes, this research offers valuable insights and serves as a model for HEIs worldwide seeking to align their academic, research and community engagement efforts with sustainable development goals.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors gratefully acknowledge the contributions of several institutions in the successful completion of this study. The research was carried out by the Centre for Sustainable Development (Greens) in collaboration with the Graduate Program in Administration at the University of Southern Santa Catarina (Unisul) as part of the Greens 10 × 10 project. The authors also extend their appreciation to the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Estado de Santa Catarina (FAPESC), Ânima Institute (AI), Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) for their invaluable support and assistance throughout the research process.
Citation
Cubas, A.L.V., Provin, A.P., Dutra, A.R.d.A., Andrade Guerra, J.B.S.O.d. and Mussi, C.C. (2024), "Forging a sustainable path: the QualEnv consortium's practices and strategies in promoting sustainable development in higher education institutions", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-11-2023-0514
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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