Making the Sustainable University: Trials and Tribulations

This book provides strategies for universities to engage sustainability challenges through the education of global citizens, focusing on climate change, habitat alteration, species loss, resource depletion, contamination, food access and sovereignty, economic equity, and energy use. Florida Gulf Coast University has attempted to infuse sustainability across curricula and operations, offering lessons for practitioners in college campuses and other industries.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 310 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This comprehensive book offers valuable insights and strategies for universities to address sustainability challenges effectively. By educating global citizens on critical topics such as climate change, habitat alteration, species loss, resource depletion and contamination, food access and sovereignty, economic equity, and energy use, universities can play a pivotal role in promoting a more sustainable future. However, it is important to note that different disciplines and operational units within universities often have diverse perspectives and ideas when it comes to advancing sustainability. For instance, some disciplines may focus on environmental challenges, such as identifying impacts to ecosystems and developing mitigation and remediation strategies, while others may prioritize greening industrial and commercial practices.

Conversely, there may be limited efforts to connect these diverse aspects, particularly when considering economic impacts. Recognizing this gap, this book delves into how Florida Gulf Coast University has approached sustainability as an integrated concept across its curricula and operations. It explores our successes and shortcomings, providing valuable lessons for sustainability practitioners on college campuses and in various industries.

By integrating sustainability into all aspects of education and operations, universities can create a culture of sustainability that permeates throughout the institution. This approach enables students to gain a comprehensive understanding of sustainability issues and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to a more sustainable world.

Furthermore, integrating sustainability into curricula and operations can lead to cost savings, improved efficiency, and increased resilience to environmental and social challenges. By promoting sustainable practices, universities can reduce their environmental footprint, conserve resources, and minimize their impact on the surrounding community.

However, implementing sustainability initiatives can also present challenges, such as resistance from stakeholders, lack of resources, and cultural barriers. Universities must be prepared to navigate these challenges and work collaboratively with other organizations to achieve their sustainability goals.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable resource for universities seeking to engage sustainability challenges through education of global citizens. By integrating sustainability into curricula and operations, universities can create a culture of sustainability that promotes environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic prosperity. However, it is important to approach sustainability as an ongoing process and to be prepared to adapt and evolve as new challenges and opportunities arise.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789813344792
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021