Assessing campus sustainability practices

A systematic literature review

Abstract

Higher education institutions (HEIs) play a critical role in advancing global sustainability goals through their operations, academic programs, and community engagement. This systematic literature review evaluates sustainability practices in HEIs, focusing on assessment frameworks and methodologies. Using a PRISMA-based process and Scopus as the primary database, 39 relevant articles were analyzed. The findings reveal the adoption of diverse frameworks, including the STARS system and UI GreenMetric, as well as the integration of sustainability principles into curricula, campus operations, and research. However, challenges such as resource constraints, limited stakeholder awareness, and infrastructural barriers hinder effective implementation. The study highlights the need for comprehensive, localized assessment tools to enhance HEIs’ contributions to promoting sustainability. Future research should develop innovative frameworks and strategies to foster sustainability literacy and practices within academic communities. By addressing current trends, challenges, and opportunities, this review advances the discourse on sustainability in HEIs and offers actionable insights for enhancing institutional practices.