Identification of Sustainability Barriers in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and the Role of Technology in Improving Sustainability in HEIs

Abstract

Sustainability and sustainable development are topics of concern for dealing with complex global socioeconomic and environmental issues. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are considered to be crucial in helping the world address these issues. However, certain factors hinder the successful implementation of sustainability initiatives and moves towards sustainable development. This paper aims to identify the barriers that hamper the effective implementation of sustainability in HEIs. It also analyses how the integration of e-learning facilitated by new digital technologies could help improve sustainability in all aspects of education within HEIs. A review of extant literature revealed that the major hindrances to sustainability in HEIs are the complexity of sustainability, lack of support from top management, lack of financial resources and public apathy. However, HEIs can move forward by seizing opportunities brought by the new digital technologies that disseminate knowledge about sustainability and to achieve sustainable development.