Sustainability indicators for higher education institutions: A proposal based on the literature review

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to propose a set of sustainability indicators that comprise its three dimensions (social, environmental, and economic), based on a literature review, capable of assess the sustainable performance in Institutions of Higher Education. Methodology: This is a study of theoretical nature, with an exploratory and qualitative approach from a literature review of national and international works that presented tools for measuring sustainability in Institutions of Higher Education and other organizations, concluding with validation of group of specialists. Originality/Relevance: We have identified that the existing tools do not contemplate all three dimensions of sustainability (social, environmental and economic), therefore, the proposed tool intended to fill this gap. Main results: As a result, this research presents a set of 57 indicators that were divided into six main aspects: Academic community; administrative staff; operations and services; teaching; research, and extension. Not only did the proposal emphasize that the indicators are significative in at least one sustainability dimension, it also highlights the interconnection [of indicators] in two or more dimensions, so that each aspect can be contemplated in different dimensions. Theoretical/Methodological contributions: The main contribution of this work is to present a holistic tool that can be applied in any university in Brazil. Conclusion: We propose that this tool is applied annually, observing the measurement frequency of the indicators, contributing the performance assessment of Institutions of Higher Education, as well as being used as a comparative parameter between different universities.