This book explores the vital role that higher education institutions (HEIs) play in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations. The book delves into how HEIs can leverage their unique capabilities-such as research, innovation, and community engagement-to drive social and environmental change. It highlights various case studies and best practices from around the globe, showcasing how universities and colleges can integrate sustainability into their curricula, promote interdisciplinary approaches, and foster partnerships with governments and businesses.

The book emphasizes the importance of education in empowering individuals and communities to understand and tackle global challenges, from poverty and inequality to climate change. It argues that HEIs are not just centers of learning, but also crucial actors in shaping policy and influencing societal norms. By equipping students with the necessary knowledge and skills, the book posits that higher education can lead to transformative actions that significantly contribute to achieving the SDGs. Overall, it is a call to action for educators, policymakers, and leaders to recognize and harness the potential of higher education in creating a sustainable future for all.

Autorentext

Professor Walter Leal holds Chair of Climate Change Management and Health at the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (Germany), and Chair of Environment and Technology at Manchester Metropolitan University (UK). He directs the Research and Transfer Centre "Sustainability Development and Climate Change Management". His main research interests are in the fields of sustainable development and climate change, also including aspects of climate change and health.

His field experience in over 70 countries involves missions undertaken on behalf of various international organisations (e.g. European Union, World Bank, OECD, UNESCO, UNEP) and attendance to specialised events in North America, Latin America/Caribbean, Europe, Africa, Asia and Pacific Region, and the Middle East. Professor Leal has acted as Reviewer, Review Editor and Lead Author at the assessment reports issued by the Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change. He has written, edited or co-edited over 200 books and has in excess of 500 journal papers to his credit.