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Introduction

One of the primary functions of colleges and universities is to educate students. By training and educating future leaders, scholars, workers, and professionals; higher education institutions are uniquely positioned to understand and address sustainability challenges. Institutions that offer courses covering sustainability issues help equip their students to lead society to a sustainable future.

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Sustainability Education: Perspectives and Practice across Higher Education

  • University of Plymouth (Devon)
  • Mount Saint Vincent University (NS)

How do we equip learners with the values, knowledge, skills, and motivation to help achieve economic, social and ecological well-being? How can universities make a major contribution towards a more …

  • Posted Jan. 30, 2017
  • Publications
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Energy Efficiency Jobs in America

This report finds that energy efficiency is a massive employer with 1.9 million jobs nationwide and thousands of jobs in each and every state. The report, based on U.S. Bureau …

  • Posted Jan. 30, 2017
  • Publications
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Student Interest for Environment/Sustainability Undergraduate Programmes: Recent Australian Experience

  • RMIT University

Increasingly, employers are seeing the need to have employees who have capabilities in sustainability. The hope is that there will be a sufficient number of appropriately educated people to enter …

  • Posted Jan. 27, 2017
  • Publications
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Educating for Sustainability: 2017 Sustainable Campus Best Practices from ISCN and GULF Universities

  • International Sustainable Campus Network (ISCN) (MA)

This report, which was released in conjuction with the 2017 World Economic Forum, contains case studies on educating for sustainability provided by 30 members of the International Sustainable Campus Network …

  • Posted Jan. 27, 2017
  • Publications
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Business sustainability and undergraduate management education: an Australian study

The academic literature arguing that there is an urgent requirement for businesses to become more sustainable is rapidly expanding. There is also a demonstrated need for managers to develop a …

  • Posted Jan. 27, 2017
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Higher Education for Sustainable Development: Students' Perspectives on an Innovative Approach to Educational Change

  • Leuphana University of Lüneburg

Problem statement: With Higher Education for Sustainable Development (HESD) being an innovative approach to educational change, its principal objective is students’ development of transformation competencies. However, HESD evaluations hardly …

  • Posted Jan. 23, 2017
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Engaging sustainability good practice within the curriculum design and property portfolio in the Australian higher education sector

  • Deakin University

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the extent to which universities’ strategic plans affect the level of incorporation of sustainability within the curriculum design and property portfolio. …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Transdisciplinary learning and teaching as answers to urban sustainability challenges

Purpose

This paper aims to explain the relevance of science-society interfaces and their potential for higher education institutions to engage stakeholders in supporting sustainable change in cities, via the transdisciplinary …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Assessing the Infusion of Sustainability Principles into University Curricula

  • The Hashemite University
  • Universita degli Studi di Padova

The current paper presents the assessment of the infusion of sustainability principles into university curricula at two Jordanian universities. The peer review process of revising the curricula infusing sustainability principles …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Future-oriented higher education: Which key competencies should be fostered through university teaching and learning?

  • Leuphana University of Lüneburg

Universities play an important role in shaping the future of the world society in terms of sustainable development by generating new knowledge as well as contributing to the development of …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Developing a Whole-of-University Approach to Educating for Sustainability: Linking Curriculum, Research and Sustainable Campus Operations

  • Australian National University

Institutions of higher education are poised to play a significant role in the search for a more sustainable future. Most universities are tackling sustainability issues in a compartmentalised manner, sustainability …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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An in-depth literature review of the evolving roles and contributions of universities to education for sustainable development

Universities have been consistently considered significant contributors to the pursuit of regional sustainability initiatives for over two decades. The composite nature of sustainable development (SD) has appointed Universities to critical …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
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Higher Education and Sustainable Development: Paradox and Possibility

Higher Education and Sustainable Development examines whether it is possible to mandate, plan, monitor and evaluate the higher education sector’s route to the production of educated, innovative, independent, self-determining, critical …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Education for Sustainable Development in Higher Education Institutions: Its Influence on the Pro-Sustainability Orientation of Mexican Students

The role that higher education plays in the promotion of sustainable development is evident in a variety of declarations on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and is also a research …

  • Posted Jan. 18, 2017
  • Publications
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Executive Education Program in Sustainable Food Systems

  • Columbia University (NY)

The food system is complex and encompasses all aspects of sustainability: social, economic, and environmental. The Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability (EICES) Executive Education Program in Sustainable Food Systems …

  • Posted Jan. 5, 2017
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Executive Education Program in Conservation and Environmental Sustainability

  • Columbia University (NY)

The Earth Institute Center for Environmental Sustainability (EICES) Executive Education Program allows professionals from all sectors to gain knowledge and tools to make sound decisions about business activities and policy …

  • Posted Jan. 5, 2017
  • Academic Programs
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Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Global Sustainable Management

  • Anaheim University (CA)

Anaheim University's Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Global Sustainable Management focuses on leadership, social responsibility and sustainable practices. Students complete 4 foundation courses + 8 courses in sustainable management …

  • Posted Jan. 5, 2017
  • Academic Programs
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Applied Sustainability Education with a Systems Science Emphasis at a STEM University

  • Florida Institute of Technology (FL)

In the southeastern U.S., the Sustainability Studies bachelors program at F.I.T. is one of the first of its type among STEM universities. A preliminary case study is constructed from recent …

  • Posted Dec. 21, 2016
  • Publications
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Towards a Sustainable University: The Ca’ Foscari Experience

Towards a Sustainable University tackles the challenge of sustainability in universities. Universities are a working environment and an organization in which sustainability can be experienced. This book shows how a …

  • Posted Dec. 16, 2016
  • Publications
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Systemic Structural Constellations and Sustainability in Academia: A New Method for Sustainable Higher Education

This book argues that to create truly sustainable universities, we require new methods of visualising and interpreting them holistically as institutions built on complex relationships and systems, rather than as …

  • Posted Dec. 16, 2016
  • Publications
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Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems

  • Portland State University (OR)

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems at Portland State University offers students the opportunity to explore the complex issues and relationships between food, people, and society. The program draws …

  • Posted Dec. 16, 2016
  • Academic Programs
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Rutgers University Online MPA – Specialization in Nonprofit Management

  • Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick Campus (NJ)

A great education starts with a great curriculum. The public administration degree from Rutgers School of Public Affairs and Administration (SPAA) gives students a broad understanding of the field and …

  • Posted Dec. 16, 2016
  • Academic Programs
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Curricular Innovation for Sustainability: The Piedmont/ Ponderosa Model of Faculty Development

  • Emory University (GA)
  • Northern Arizona University (AZ)

Curricular innovation is at the center of the challenges many colleges and universities face as they seek to help students address more successfully than previous generations the complex, multi-faceted, systemic …

  • Posted Dec. 12, 2016
  • Publications
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Integration of Business Sustainability Education into the Business Curriculum

  • University of Memphis (TN)

Business sustainability in all dimensions of economic, governance, social, ethical, and environmental (EGSEE) performance is gaining acceptance as many global stock exchanges either encourage or require their listed companies to …

Online Master of Science in Biomimicry

  • Arizona State University (AZ)

The online Master of Science in Biomimicry at ASU Online is a first of its kind program focusing on an emerging discipline that seeks to apply life’s strategies to human …

  • Posted Dec. 1, 2016
  • Academic Programs
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Teaching with trash: archaeological insights on university waste management

  • University of Idaho (ID)

The archaeological study of modern trash on an American university campus can yield valuable insight into how both human and environmental processes contribute to the accumulation and distribution of litter. …

An overview of life cycle assessment (LCA) and research-based teaching in renewable and sustainable energy education

Engineers working as designers, managers and policy-makers play a key role in decision-making got sustainable energy solutions. Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a key decision-making and benchmarking tool used for …

Sustainability in Higher Education: An Assessment of Washington State Colleges and Universities, 2005-2016

  • Evergreen State College, The (WA)

The purpose of this research project was to assess the integration of sustainability in Washington State higher education from 2005 to 2016. Both the extent of integration and the focus …

Factors encouraging sustainability integration into institutions of higher education

  • University of Malaya

In view of the mountainous evidence on destruction of environmental quality and societal well-being as a consequence of rapid economic development, sustainability has gained vast attention from the community and …

Handbook of Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development in Higher Education: Volume 2

  • RMIT University

This Handbook offers an overview of what universities around the world are doing to implement sustainable development (e.g., via curriculum innovation, research, activities, or practical projects) and how their efforts …

Handbook of Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development in Higher Education: Volume 1

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MA)

This Handbook offers an overview of what universities around the world are doing to implement sustainable development (e.g., via curriculum innovation, research, activities, or practical projects) and how their efforts …

HEASC Best Practices in First Year Experiences in Sustainability

  • Arizona State University (AZ)
  • Clemson University (SC)
  • Colorado State University (CO)
  • Western Colorado University (CO)
  • Higher Education Associations Sustainability Consortium (HEASC) (PA)

Want to learn about best practices in First Year Experience (FYE) programs in sustainability? Need resources and ideas to develop an FYE program in sustainability? Interested in finding out what …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Videos & Webinars
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Infusing Sustainability Principles and Practices into Study Abroad

  • Concordia College (NY)
  • Delta College (MI)
  • Lawrence University (WI)

Sustainability, a common thread across curriculums, can serve as the connection for engaged learning. Tie it to international travel and it links our students with opportunity for greater understanding of …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Student Research and Projects Conducted Through a Campus as a Living Lab Program

  • Hobart and William Smith Colleges (NY)
  • Indiana University Bloomington (IN)

This panel will reflect on best practices for undergraduate research and course-based projects designed to advance student learning while generating collaborations that benefit university academics and operations. Two case studies …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Community as a Living Laboratory: Promoting Community Engagement Through Student Internship Programs

  • Furman University (SC)
  • Indiana University Indianapolis (IN)
  • University of Arizona (AZ)

Community and campus sustainability issues can be addressed simultaneously while creating a hands-on learning opportunity for students. In this presentation, representatives from three universities (Furman University, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Assessing Course Impact: Three Models of Sustainability Evaluation

  • Baylor University (TX)
  • Bemidji State University (MN)
  • University of Colorado Colorado Springs (CO)

This session is a discussion of three different ways of assessing the incorporation of sustainability into the world view of college students. The presenters wish to start a discussion with …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Scaling applied learning programs for sustainability

  • Arizona State University (AZ)
  • Portland State University (OR)

Applied learning opportunities, from internships, to community-based learning courses to student research provide training for students in addressing complex societal challenges. These endeavors are mostly designed to optimize the student's …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Conscious College: A Framework for Campus Chapters to Inspire, Educate, and Activate Students Around Sustainability

  • Turning Green (CA)

What do you need to bring sustainable thinking and action to your campus with real, lasting impact? The Turning Green team has been working with students for over eleven years, …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Scaling Applied Learning for Sustainability Programs: Building a Community of Peers

  • Arizona State University (AZ)
  • Portland State University (OR)

This meeting brings leaders of applied learning programs for sustainability outcomes together-catalyzing the development of a group of peers interested in collaborating on this topic. Scaling applied learning programs means …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Connecting with community for striking a sustainable balance: a documentary about student experience in a biosphere reserve

  • University of Saskatchewan (SK)
  • Redberry Lake Biosphere Reserve (SK)

Striking Balance is a documentary series, launching Fall 2016, to celebrate Canada's 16 biosphere reserves-learning sites for research and education about biodiversity conservation and sustainability. Created by UNESCO, biosphere reserves …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Universal Designs, Part 1: Nicaragua

  • Villanova University (PA)

Universal Designs' documents the decade plus long relationship the Villanova engineering and nursing schools have with the remote region of Waslala, Nicaragua by highlighting the ways the relationship has transformed …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Academia is a Training Ground: Applying the 6 Pillars of Holistic Sustainability to Build Within and Move Beyond the Campus

  • Sierra Nevada College (NV)

Teachers must foster the role their students play in theorizing sustainability, implementing sustainability lessons, and applying work from their classrooms outside of academic settings. After the celebratory, supportive, and important …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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LEED Lab Live; Curricula in O+M Application

  • Colorado State University, Pueblo (CO)
  • The Catholic University of America (DC)
  • University of California, Merced (CA)
  • American University in Cairo (Cairo)

A Market Need, A Curricular Solution: For the past few years, a laboratory course called LEED Lab, created at The Catholic University of America in partnership with USGBC, designed to …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Wearing Dual Town-Gown Hats: Catalyzing Ambitious Action as Elected Officials & Sustainability Professionals

  • University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (MN)
  • Elected Officials to Protect America (SC)

The US and China made history by ratifying the Paris Agreement, signed by 196 countries in December at COP21 (or the Paris 2015 Climate Conference). President Obama said,'our willingness to …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Using the Campus as a Living Learning Laboratory: Methods for Informal Sustainability Education

  • University of Michigan (MI)

This panel will explore how new and existing sustainability projects at the University of Michigan are being integrated into a pathway for student sustainability engagement and leadership as we aim …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Techno-philia and Sustainability: Oxymoronic Bedfellows?

  • Natural Sustainability (MA)

Modern society is techno-philic- automatically in-love with the next gadget. Yet critiquing technology, merely raising awareness of real positives and negatives, labels you 'technophobic' or a 'Luddite.' Even mainstream sustainability …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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New Directions for Curriculum Development and Faculty Development through a Consortium Approach

  • Sustainability Curriculum Consortium (MD)

At AASHE 2015, the presenters convened an interactive dialogue designed to identify the significant challenges facing sustainability educators in higher education and their recommendations to address their most critical needs. …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Teaching sustainability as an interdisciplinary subject: An effective model

  • George Mason University (VA)

Sustainability is not a scientific issue or an environmental issue. It presents enormous challenges to human and natural systems and entails political, economic, legal, and ethical dimensions. Instructors who teach …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Prioritizing Co-curricular and Curricular Strategies to Create Sustainability Literate Graduates - and how to Measure Success

  • University of California, Office of the President (CA)
  • University of California, Santa Barbara (CA)
  • University of California, Irvine (CA)
  • Purdue University (IN)

What are the most effective strategies and programs for creating sustainability literate graduates who are ready to go beyond the campus? What do we mean by effective-and how do we …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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Community-based teaching and research: Sustainability-focused case studies from Portland State University

  • Portland State University (OR)

Portland State University's faculty and students routinely go beyond the campus and put into practice the University's motto, 'Let knowledge serve the city.' This panel examines case studies from a …

  • Posted Nov. 18, 2016
  • Conference Presentations
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This tab provides access to data collected through AASHE’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System™ (STARS). STARS is a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. STARS enables meaningful comparisons over time and across institutions using a common set of measurements developed with broad participation from the campus sustainability community.

All responses reference content from reports under the latest version of STARS, version 2.2. AASHE membership and log-in is required.

AC 1: Academic Courses

AC 2: Learning Outcomes

AC 3: Undergraduate Program

AC 4: Graduate Program

AC 5: Immersive Experience

AC 6: Sustainability Literacy Assessment

AC 7: Incentives for Developing Courses

AC 8: Campus as a Living Laboratory

Additional analysis on scores and quantitative fields can be conducted using the STARS Benchmarking Tool.

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