Sustainable development in the economic, environmental, and social fields of ecuadorian universities

Abstract

This article considers universities as an important element to increase productivity and competitiveness, where sustainable development (SD) is a cornerstone aspect for their development because it promotes effective communication mechanisms. The aim of this research is to evaluate the management of category A and B universities in Ecuador, through the contents of their accountability reports. The method to be used is bibliographic, exploratory, analytical, and experimental, considering the indicators of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). The results show a lack of commitment from the analyzed higher education institutions when preparing accountability reports in terms of sustainability criteria. Additionally, the category in which each university is placed does not guarantee effective disclosure of information to the point that some category B universities have a higher percentage of revealed data than their A category peers. Similarly, the results also suggest proposing plans of action for policymakers to create standards for socially responsible annual reports to respond to the "triple bottom line" criteria approach, as well as establishing guidelines for the correct dissemination and disclosure of information. The originality of this work lies in analyzing the social responsibility practices in Ecuadorian universities by applying GRI indicators.