The University and Sustainability:
Universities – as centres of science, knowledge, research and innovation – are a fundamental pillar of the concept of sustainability. They develop leaders and decision-makers who set plans and programmes in all areas of life, and therefore play a fundamental and positive role in the concept of sustainability through:
- Education:
One of the most important ways in which the university influences sustainability, through academic programmes and awareness-raising for its students, teaching staff and employees, by integrating and organising sustainability within the curriculum to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet environmental and social challenges, and by raising awareness of the importance of renewable energy, protecting the environment and how to preserve environmental diversity.
- Scientific research:
Through scientific research and innovation, universities can play a pivotal role in sustainability, because research related to the environment, pollution, renewable energy, agriculture and rationalising water use, and sustainable industries all feed development and the transition towards comprehensive sustainability.
- Community engagement:
Universities are community incubators, because through interaction with the local community and population they promote participation and initiatives that develop the concept of sustainability. Through awareness programmes, partnerships with local environmental organisations and community service projects, they can drive and encourage awareness of responsibility and contribution to sustainable development on a wider scale.
- A sustainable campus:
In order to embody sustainability genuinely and effectively, the university must adopt environmentally friendly practices by reducing energy consumption, implementing recycling programmes, using sustainable building materials, using environmentally friendly means of transport, and attending to afforestation campaigns and increasing green spaces so as to reduce carbon emissions. In this way it sets an example of sustainability for its students and staff.