CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY: THE NEED FOR CHANGE

Abstract

Studies done on campus sustainability have received increased attention in recent years. According to Mostafa Nejati and Mehran Nejati (2012), “Given the growing global interest on the university’s role towards promoting sustainability, an increasing number of universities are committing themselves to sustainability.” However despite numerous efforts on campus sustainability initiatives, a whole sustainable campus is yet to be achieved. Findings from current research in the local context show that most students are aware about sustainability efforts and activities on campus but there is a gap between their awareness and action with regard to sustainability. A case study was done at University of Malaya (UM) to find the correlation between these two factors. A survey questionnaires and an interview were conducted in order to investigate the relationship between the students’ awareness and engagement. This study acknowledged the role of student as change agent. However this responsibility should not be shouldered by the students alone. In order to lead the change, there need to be a team effort from both the students and the university.  As suggested by Dunne and Zandstra (2011), there is a need to not only look at the students’ action but also to listen to the student’s voice towards achieving campus sustainability. This paper aims to not only see the actions taken by the students but also take into consideration the limitations they faced. Students can only do so much, but in the end success and change can only be achieved through a synergy approach. Based on the findings of the study, this paper attempts to come up with a proposal on what actions could be taken by the university to empower the students to lead the change for a sustainable campus and a better future.