How do China’s elite universities contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Cases of Tsinghua University andZhejiang University

Purpose Elite universities play a pivotal role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by leveraging their intellectual, technological and global resources. This study aims to examine how such institutions, particularly in China, contribute to the SDGs through their green university initiatives. Design/methodology/approach Based on an innovative five-dimensional framework, this study compares the practices of Tsinghua University and Zhejiang University, two elite universities in China, in their green university initiative, analyzing how they integrate digitalization and sustainability in pursuit of the SDGs. Findings The two elite university share several commonalities in their sustainable development practices. The approaches of both institutions are in line with the proposed analytical framework of the green university initiative. Meanwhile, each has its own distinctive features. Practical implications This study identifies four actionable recommendations to optimize universities contributions to the SDGs, including interdisciplinary integration, using digital tools, community involvement and cultural cultivation and international cooperation. Originality/value This study introduces an innovative five-dimensional framework, which narrows an academic gap, enriches the theoretical foundation and provides a comprehensive understanding of green universities and their implementation pathways. This study also proposes recommendations to guide higher education institutions in more effectively achieving the SDGs in the digital era, providing actionable insights for universities in China and globally.