Relationship between leadership, sustainable practices and green behaviour of students in higher education institutions: the mediating role of sustainability policy

Purpose Higher education institutions (HEI) are crucial in establishing the foundation for sustainable development. Academic faculty and institutional leaders are considered the key educators, shaping students who are viewed as future leaders. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between HEI leadership, sustainability policy, sustainable practices and green behaviour of students. It also examines the mediating role of sustainability policy in the relationship between HEI leadership and green behaviour of students. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted a quantitative exploratory research approach. Data was collected through a questionnaire survey among 503 undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in full-time degree programs in select universities located in Delhi NCR. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses. Findings The results found that HEI leadership significantly influenced sustainability policy and the implementation of sustainable practices within universities. Additionally, sustainability policy was found to mediate the relationship between HEI leadership and sustainable practices. The integration of sustainable practices in HEI is seen to foster the development of green behaviour among students. The findings are interpreted through the lens of conservation of resource theory and theory of planned behaviour. Practical implications The study suggests that adopting and implementing sustainable practices can help students develop environmental awareness. Students transform to become environmentally conscious citizens who can drive sustainable initiatives and contribute towards global environmental goals. Originality/value This study is the first to investigate the relationship between HEI leadership, sustainability policy, sustainable practices and green behaviour of students. It provides pioneer empirical evidence that can guide leaders in implementing sustainable initiatives, promoting responsible resource use and fostering a sustainability-focused culture.