Sustainability assessment in universities: a critical analysis

Purpose In recent years, universities have faced increasing pressure to integrate sustainability into their operations. However, challenges such as awareness gaps and resource limitations persist. To address these issues, universities are using sustainability assessment tools, with indicator-based assessment being the most prevalent because of its simplicity and transparency. These tools help universities monitor and compare their sustainability efforts, aiding in decision-making processes. This study aims to investigate how existing literature addresses sustainability performance assessment in universities, through a critical analysis. Design/methodology/approach This research conducted a systematic literature review using the Knowledge Development Process-Constructivist (ProKnow-C) intervention tool. A total of 55 scientifically relevant empirical articles were selected from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, focusing on the assessment of sustainability performance in universities. Findings The bibliometric analysis showed that universities mainly use assessment tools for control purposes when evaluating sustainability performance. The literature often emphasizes individual behavior over organizational outcomes in sustainability assessments. The literature map identified three main aspects guiding performance assessment methods: guidance of assessment tools, performance evaluation methods and organizational strategy. However, the systemic analysis uncovered a significant gap: decision-makers are largely absent in development of sustainability assessment models, highlighting a critical disconnect between business processes and performance assessment literature. Originality/value Using the ProKnow-C intervention tool, this study makes a significant theoretical contribution to the literature by systematically mapping existing research trajectories. To date, there has been very little scholarly attention to the intersections between performance assessment and sustainability in universities. This study offers a unique mapping framework, highlighting key aspects, metrics and consequences, while identifying critical areas for future investigation.