Rob Wells, MBA, CPCU, Risk Professional

The Importance of Measuring and Reporting Sustainability Performance

Measuring and reporting sustainability performance in higher education is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, sustainability reporting serves as a communication tool, allowing higher education institutions to convey their environmental, social, and economic impacts. It provides a platform to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, inspiring accountability and action for a more sustainable future. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship within the institution, influencing future leaders and decision-makers to prioritize sustainable practices.

Moreover, the importance of measuring and reporting sustainability performance in higher education lies in the potential to drive positive change. By transparently reporting on their sustainability efforts, institutions can inspire others to take similar responsibility for their own actions towards a more sustainable future. This can create a ripple effect, leading to a broader adoption of sustainable practices within and beyond the academic community. It also fosters a culture of environmental awareness and responsibility among students, faculty, and staff, contributing to the development of a more environmentally conscious society. Thus, sustainability reporting not only captures the current state of sustainability within higher education but also acts as a catalyst for continuous improvement and widespread impact.

Key Sustainability Metrics and Indicators in Higher Education

When it comes to higher education, sustainability metrics and indicators play a crucial role in evaluating the environmental, social, and economic impacts of institutions. These metrics enable colleges and universities to track and measure their sustainability performance, ultimately contributing to the global sustainability agenda. For instance, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) framework is a prominent tool used by higher education institutions for reporting their sustainability efforts. This framework covers a wide array of specific metrics, including energy and water usage, waste management, and greenhouse gas emissions. By focusing on these key areas, the STARS framework enables institutions to comprehensively assess their impact on the environment and society, and take proactive measures to improve their sustainability performance.

Furthermore, higher education institutions leverage these sustainability metrics and indicators not only to measure their own performance but also to contribute to the broader global sustainability goals. For example, by tracking and reporting on metrics such as energy and water usage, colleges and universities can identify areas where they can implement more sustainable practices, reduce resource consumption, and minimize their environmental footprint. This proactive approach is essential for institutions to fulfill their role as leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship, setting an example for their students, staff, and surrounding communities. Therefore, the STARS framework and other sustainability metrics not only serve as assessment tools but also as catalysts for positive change and progress towards a more sustainable future in higher education.

Best Practices for Measuring and Reporting Sustainability Performance

In addition to adapting the global reporting initiative (GRI) guidelines, higher education institutions can also benefit from integrating the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) framework into their sustainability reporting practices. The STARS framework provides a transparent, self-reporting platform that allows colleges and universities to measure and communicate their sustainability performance. By utilizing the STARS framework, institutions can track, manage, and share information about their sustainability efforts, engaging and recognizing the full spectrum of higher education institutions, from community colleges to research universities.

For example, Binghamton University in New York has successfully applied the STARS framework to measure and report its sustainability performance. Through this process, the university was able to assess various sustainability metrics, including energy and water usage, waste management, transportation, and greenhouse gas emissions. By doing so, Binghamton University demonstrated its commitment to sustainability and provided valuable insights into its environmental, social, and economic impacts. This comprehensive approach not only highlights the institution’s dedication to sustainability but also serves as an inspiration for others to take similar responsibility for their actions, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Case Studies of Exemplary Sustainability Reporting

Analyzing case studies of universities with exemplary sustainability reporting is essential to showcase the impact of sustainability performance designations awarded to institutions. These case studies provide valuable insights into sustainability performance, highlighting the commitment of higher education institutions to sustainable practices and inspiring others to follow suit.

For example, Binghamton University received a Platinum designation for its sustainability performance from the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). This designation signifies the university’s outstanding efforts in promoting sustainability across various aspects of its operations, including energy and water usage, waste management, transportation, and sustainability-related education and research initiatives. By examining such case studies, other institutions can gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific initiatives and strategies that have led to exemplary sustainability performance.

Moreover, the University of California, Berkeley, has consistently achieved a Gold designation in sustainability reporting, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Through detailed reporting on areas such as greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable procurement, and community engagement, the university serves as a model for inspiring other higher education institutions to prioritize sustainability and contribute to a more sustainable future. These case studies not only recognize the achievements of these universities but also serve as powerful examples for others to learn from and emulate.

Challenges and Opportunities in Measuring and Reporting Sustainability Performance

Measuring and reporting sustainability performance in higher education presents various challenges and opportunities. It is crucial to address these challenges and recommend improvements to enhance the effectiveness of sustainability reporting. Reframing the GRI guidelines to improve comparability among reports and increase their wider employment at universities is one such recommendation to overcome existing challenges.

The research sources used in this article are as follows:

1. STARS – AASHE: https://stars.aashe.org/
2. Elsevier SDG-GRI Infographic: https://assets.ctfassets.net/o78em1y1w4i4/57Fu7d8NByerd7UEoSn2fv/eae1d30f2bd3e75ba9350d8a30e97b63/Elsevier%5FSDG-GRI-Infographic-.pdf
3. GA Institute – Sustainability Update: https://ga-institute.com/Sustainability-Update/the-value-of-sustainability-reporting-in-higher-education-institutions
4. Emerald Insight – Sustainability Accounting, Management and Policy Journal: https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/SAMPJ-05-2022-0257/full/html