Sustainable Development
The future well-being of humanity and the planet depends on the successful resolution of the interconnected challenges of economic, social, cultural, and environmental sustainability. Since 1993, the IAU has been an advocate for the key role that higher education plays in sustainable development. The IAU’s actions in support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provide the support, knowledge, and basis for universities to develop inter-institutional collaboration in pursuit of sustainable development. The aim is to assist higher education leaders wishing to embed sustainable development concepts and principles in strategic planning, academic and organizational work.
Latest HESD Updates
What is Higher Education and Research for Sustainable Development?
The following understanding of “sustainable development” from the Brundtland Report (1987) guides the IAU’s work on Higher Education and Research for Sustainable Development (HESD):
“Sustainable development is a development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”
It is important to note that concepts and understandings of sustainable development can vary depending on the regional, cultural, and political context. In its mission to be a truly global association, the IAU aims to pursue and present sustainable development in an internationalized and inclusive manner. Activities and actions for HESD at the IAU are defined in the IAU 2030 Strategy and guided by the designated Working Group.
HESD Resources
Global Surveys and Publications
Global Surveys are IAU flagship publications for multiple strategic priority areas, including HESD. The IAU has produced three Global Surveys on HESD to date (2016, 2019, and 2022). The reports from these surveys hold significant significance within the HESD field, having expanded in scope and depth over time, and they are frequently referenced by researchers, experts, and media outlets specializing in higher education.
Global Portal on HESD
The IAU HESD Portal provides access to university actions and more initiatives developed around the world to promote sustainability and contribute to the 2030 Agenda and SDGs. It features institutional profiles, initiatives, and resources from around the world, promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and best practices in sustainable development.
Activities
Global Cluster on HESD
The Cluster on HESD promotes the role of higher education in building more sustainable societies by connecting institutions around the world to work towards the SDGs.
Responsible Futures
Responsible Futures embeds sustainability through all aspects of teaching and learning, working in partnership with students at universities around the world.
Whole Institution Approach to ESD
The IAU collaborates with UNESCO to develop resources that support the implementation of the Whole Institution Approach to Education for Sustainable Development, helping institutions integrate sustainability across all aspects of education.
Global Advocacy
Cooperation with Key Stakeholders and Events
The IAU actively fosters engagement with the global higher education community for Higher Education and Sustainable Development (HESD) through collaborative initiatives, knowledge sharing platforms, and strategic partnerships, facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovative solutions to address sustainability challenges in higher education worldwide.
Historical Background and Policies
The IAU advocates for the role of HESD in higher education and the progression of Agenda 2030 through various types of written declarations: from policy statements to global treaties.