Innovations in environmental management within higher education institutions
Higher education institutions (HEIs) are increasingly recognized as pivotal actors in the global transition toward sustainability. As large, complex organizations with significant environmental footprints—managing extensive energy use, waste streams, transportation systems, and built environments—universities and colleges are microcosms of cities. At the same time, they are centers of knowledge creation, education, and societal influence. This dual role positions HEIs not only as educators on sustainability but also as critical testbeds and leaders in implementing innovative environmental management practices.
This special issue aims to capture and advance this transformative potential by showcasing cutting-edge research and real-world innovations in environmental management across HEIs worldwide. While growing attention has been paid to green campuses, much of the existing literature remains siloed, focusing on isolated technical solutions such as energy-efficient buildings or recycling programs. There is a pressing need for more integrated, systemic analyses that connect infrastructure, governance, pedagogy, and community engagement. The originality of this special issue lies in its holistic approach. It moves beyond fragmented case studies to examine the synergies between technological, institutional, educational, and behavioral innovations. By featuring empirical research, comparative case studies, and policy analyses from diverse geographical and institutional contexts, it will build a comprehensive understanding of what drives successful sustainability transitions in higher education.
This special issue directly addresses urgent societal challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, and environmental pollution. By providing scalable and replicable models, it supports HEIs in fulfilling their responsibility to reduce ecological impacts and serve as living laboratories for sustainability. It aligns closely with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
Ultimately, this collection aims to bridge theory and practice, offering actionable insights for university leaders, policymakers, researchers, and sustainability practitioners. It seeks to inspire a new generation of environmentally responsible institutions and citizens, reinforcing the vital role of higher education in shaping a sustainable future.
List of Topic Areas
- Innovation in Green Campus Infrastructure
- Digital Technologies and Environmental Governance in Higher Education
- Environmental Governance and Policy Mechanisms in Higher Education Institutions
- Circular Economy and Resource-Efficient Management in Higher Education
- Climate-Resilient Campus Development
Submissions Information
Submissions are made using ScholarOne Manuscripts. Registration and access are available here: https://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/ijshe
Author guidelines must be strictly followed. Please see here: https://www.emeraldgrouppublishing.com/journal/ijshe
Authors should select (from the drop-down menu) the special issue title at the appropriate step in the submission process, i.e. in response to ““Please select the issue you are submitting to”.
Submitted articles must not have been previously published, nor should they be under consideration for publication anywhere else, while under review for this journal.
Key Deadlines
Opening date for manuscripts submissions: 01/10/2025
Closing date for manuscripts submission: 21/01/2026
For more details refer here
