University handprint framework: quantifying the positive impacts of university-led sustainability action research

Purpose This study aims to introduce the University Handprint Framework – a novel method for quantifying the external positive impacts (“handprints”) of sustainability actions undertaken by higher education institutions. It aims to fill a critical gap in current sustainability tracking systems by enabling universities to measure their contributions to societal and environmental outcomes beyond campus boundaries. Design/methodology/approach The study presents a case study of a project-based sustainability course that partnered students with external organizations to implement climate-related solutions. The study calculated the university’s potential handprint associated with the course and informed the development of the University Handprint Framework. Data challenges, such as availability, tracking, attribution and double counting of emissions, were addressed in the method’s development to ensure methodological rigor. Findings This study results revealed that the course enabled partner organizations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 7.04E + 05 kg CO2-eq, which demonstrated a quantifiable, university-enabled carbon handprint beyond campus boundaries. Practical implications The framework offers universities a practical tool to highlight their broader societal contributions and can inform policy, reporting and investment in sustainability education and research. Given universities’ pivotal role in research dissemination, sustainability education and climate change mitigation, showcasing these positive impacts is essential. Originality/value This is the first known framework tailored to higher education that enables structured quantification of both potential (ex ante) and realized (ex-post) handprints. It complements existing tools and adds a new dimension to sustainability planning and impact tracking in academia.