Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the most prevalent initiatives undertaken by leading universities in sustainability and offer a roadmap for other institutions seeking to undertake similar actions and contribute to more effective implementation of sustainability practices.

Design/methodology/approach

By using a quantitative assessment approach, the study sheds light on successful initiatives implemented by universities worldwide, spanning six categories: transportation, waste management, curriculum, food and dining, water and energy. Each category is clearly related to one or more of the 17 sustainable development goals. A cluster analysis was also applied to identify regional trends in preferred initiatives.

Findings

The study underlines the importance of integrating sustainability principles into the curricula of higher education institutions (HEIs) as well as educating staff members on energy and water management. The most common and impactful initiatives in the studied six categories have been identified. Many of the initiatives mentioned in the study do not just result in reducing ecological footprint but also provide economic savings as well. Differences among regions and countries were observed in the implementation of initiatives. Cultural and habitual factors should not be disregarded during the selection process of initiatives.

Originality/value

The findings of this study may help universities to take their first steps toward implementing initiatives that can effectively promote sustainable development. Results will aid other HEIs in planning for next steps while outlining the more common initiatives.

中文翻译：

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对大学最流行的可持续发展举措的调查

目的

本研究的目的是确定领先大学在可持续发展方面采取的最普遍的举措，并为其他寻求采取类似行动并为更有效地实施可持续发展实践做出贡献的机构提供路线图。

设计/方法论/途径

通过使用定量评估方法，该研究揭示了世界各地大学实施的成功举措，涵盖六个类别：交通、废物管理、课程、食品和餐饮、水和能源。每个类别都与 17 个可持续发展目标中的一个或多个目标明确相关。还应用聚类分析来确定首选举措的区域趋势。

发现

该研究强调了将可持续发展原则纳入高等教育机构（HEIs）课程以及对工作人员进行能源和水管理教育的重要性。已确定了所研究的六个类别中最常见和最有影响力的举措。研究中提到的许多举措不仅可以减少生态足迹，还可以节省经济。各地区和国家在倡议的实施方面存在差异。在举措的选择过程中不应忽视文化和习惯因素。

原创性/价值

这项研究的结果可能有助于大学迈出实施有效促进可持续发展举措的第一步。结果将帮助其他高等教育机构规划下一步行动，同时概述更常见的举措。