This campaign introduces transmedia-based learning about environmental sustainability in the university system. Several podcasts are implemented in the campaign.
A summary of the campaign is available in the PDF file below and in the Materials tab, where you can also find German, Italian, and Slovene translations.
The individual content elements of the transmedia campaign have been distributed across various media channels, including the eLearning platform Elearningproject.eu, YouTube video and podcast playlists, Facebook and LinkedIn posts and reposts, Spotify, and printed media like stickers, posters, and roll-ups.
You are invited to join our campaign! Read the below reading for a short overview of the campaign.
The podcast below highlights the importance of environmental sustainability awareness in universities. Universities have a significant environmental impact due to their resource consumption and play a crucial role in educating future leaders. To promote sustainability, the podcast suggests integrating it into the curriculum, establishing sustainability centres, reducing resource consumption, and using sustainable procurement practices. These efforts have multiple benefits, such as changing mindsets and creating a more sustainable campus environment. Universities can implement sustainable policies by establishing a sustainability office, promoting education and awareness, conducting research, forming sustainability committees, incorporating sustainability into academic programs, and measuring progress through key performance indicators and annual reports. In summary, universities can lead the way in promoting environmental sustainability and educating environmentally conscious leaders.
The below podcast discusses the “RespectNET” project and its focus on sustainability education for inclusive societies. It emphasizes the importance of education and mentions the UN’s 2030 Agenda’s goals for sustainable development. It also highlights the need for sustainability in school environments to strengthen children’s connection with their surroundings and promote conscious, sustainable living. The Ministry of Education’s 2017 Plan for Education for Sustainability translates UN objectives into concrete actions.
The podcast below highlights the significance of sustainability in universities, especially online institutions like Pegaso Online University. It underscores the responsibility of universities to be aware of their environmental, economic, and social impacts and to promote transparency. Sustainability aligns with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which seeks a sustainable world, poverty eradication, and environmental care. Sustainability encompasses economic and social aspects, contributing to well-being and progress. A sustainable economy involves the rational use of natural resources to protect the planet. Universities, including online ones, should integrate sustainability into their teaching to address global challenges, particularly for disadvantaged communities. Online universities, like Pegaso, are already reducing CO2 emissions through online learning. However, there’s room for improvement by cultivating a culture of sustainability among new generations.
The below podcast discusses the evolving concept of sustainability. It emphasises its multifaceted nature, which includes environmental, social, and economic aspects. The impact of the COVID pandemic and the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has brought sustainability to the forefront. This agenda outlines a program focusing on research, development, and innovation. The role of universities is highlighted in this context, where education and research are not the sole missions. The “third mission” involves transferring scientific, technological, and cultural knowledge for economic and social growth. Universities must mobilize internal and external resources to address this challenge. The podcast underscores the interconnection of these dimensions and the need for a comprehensive approach. Universities worldwide have recognised their social responsibility to incorporate sustainability into research and organizational practices. They participate in networks such as the Network of Universities for Sustainable Development (RUS) in Italy, which promotes sustainability across courses, enhances students’ commitment to sustainability, and provides sustainability training.
This podcast below focuses on the importance of social sustainability in universities, spotlighting Pegaso Online University. Universities are evolving to prioritize sustainability, not only environmentally but also socially. University social sustainability entails promoting inclusion through equal opportunities, physical accessibility, scholarships, and a welcoming environment for diverse students. Universities recognise their role as community contributors, partnering with local organizations and addressing societal issues through academic programs. University research centres delve into social issues like justice, gender equity, and mental health, providing innovative solutions. Ethical and transparent management is integral, encompassing values, anti-corruption policies, fair wages, and clear communication. Universities’ dedication to social sustainability through inclusion, community engagement, research, and ethical practices shapes a more equitable and sustainable society.
The podcast below shows that educational action for sustainable community development necessitates a comprehensive approach emphasizing reflection and systemic thinking. This aligns with the growing awareness of ecological challenges and the need for an environmental pedagogy combining human development and environmental protection. The goal is to cultivate ecological consciousness and foster planetary citizenship. To address these issues effectively, a collaborative effort across formal education, including universities, is essential to impart sustainability education and empower the new generation as change agents. A transversal approach is required to develop skills enabling young people to reflect, make responsible decisions, and take action while considering future social, cultural, economic, and environmental impacts at both local and global levels. Universities, as influential social institutions, possess the capacity to play a pivotal role in providing adequate training for ecological sustainability. However, there is growing pressure on universities to contribute to economic growth to justify public funding.
The below podcast emphasizes the multifaceted nature of sustainability, encompassing regulatory and strategic dimensions. The preservation of ecosystems and sustainable development, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the UN’s 2030 Agenda, is a pressing concern. These challenges call for a focus on research, development, and innovation guided by scientific research. Alongside their educational role, universities must also take on a “third mission,” promoting knowledge transfer across various domains. In response, universities worldwide embrace social responsibility and integrate sustainability into their practices, often collaborating through networks. Italian universities have united through the Network of Universities for Sustainable Development (RUS) since 2015, promoting sustainability within academic programs and fostering student engagement.
The below podcast discusses the importance of sustainability in university education and research. It recognizes universities as key players in promoting sustainability principles and emphasizes the need for sustainable development policies within universities. Sustainability is seen as an integral part of education and innovation, both within and beyond academia. The podcast highlights the shift towards interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of sustainability into university structures. It mentions sustainability research and education challenges, such as the need for a paradigm shift and overcoming disciplinary boundaries. It also discusses the role of sustainability centres within universities and their potential to contribute to sustainability.
