University sustainability performance as a catalyst for societal change

Purpose Despite broadening acceptance in society of the need to prioritise social and environmental sustainability, individuals and groups who dispute its relevance represent a grand challenge. Universities are uniquely placed to institutionalise the idea that pursuing sustainability is the “right thing to do”. As universities that prioritise sustainability themselves are more likely to be effective in promoting sustainability more broadly, this study explores what drives universities’ sustainability performance. Design/methodology/approach We combine external rankings data and internal sustainability performance data from the top 700 universities globally, using a regression model to explore the key determinants of sustainability performance. Drawing upon institutional theory, we critically examine the drivers shaping sustainability performance within higher education. Findings Overall, we find that large universities with greater access to resources and strong academic reputations are associated with better sustainability performance. The findings reveal the following characteristics to be drivers of sustainability performance: faculty–student ratio, international student ratio, number of students, public university, university ranking, academic reputation, citations per faculty member, international research network and employment outcomes, legal tradition, academic freedom and political stability. Practical implications Policymakers and university administrators should recognise the importance of economic and geopolitical factors in shaping sustainability performance within the higher education sector. Greater public funding, growing international student enrolments at higher tuition fees, as well as growing domestic enrolments, allow greater access to resources that positively influence sustainability performance. By leveraging regional sustainability initiatives and international research networks, universities can enhance their sustainability performance and contribute meaningfully to institutionalising the notion of sustainability globally. Originality/value This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the transformative potential inherent in universities as agents of societal change and sustainability advocacy to overcome the grand challenge of groups and individuals who resist and promote ignoring social and environmental sustainability. By elucidating the mechanisms through which universities embrace and perpetuate sustainability, this research contributes to informed policy interventions and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable and equitable future.