Overcoming barriers: Organizational effectiveness of college sustainability offices

Abstract

This study assesses the organizational effectiveness of six small colleges that have demonstrated a commitment to campus sustainability practices. Given the complex structures and competing demands within a small college, it can be difficult to measure the success of a sustainability office. This research uses the ability to overcome common barriers as a metric for assessing the success of these sustainability offices. By better understanding the effectiveness of the organizational structure of these campus sustainability offices, a college can better meet the present and future demands for increased sustainability practices. The interviews with key informants from the sustainability offices explain the challenges of operating in this environment, and can guide administrators, staff, and students in how to overcome them. Sustainability offices that are more integrated into the overall operating structure of the college were found to be more effective in achieving their goals.