Abu Dhabi, February 26, 2025 — The 1st International Sustainability Leaders Meeting (ISLM 2025), held at Abu Dhabi University on February 26-27, brought together over 250 participants from around the globe. The event was co-organized by Abu Dhabi University and UI GreenMetric, and aimed to address the pivotal role universities play in advancing sustainability through education, research, and community engagement. With leaders from academic institutions, international ranking organizations, industry experts, and government representatives in attendance, the meeting served as an invaluable platform for discussing strategies that universities can adopt to integrate sustainability into their operations and contribute to environmental action on a global scale.
Centered around the theme “Doing Sustainable Development Goals in Higher Education: The Story of Our Institution and Society”, the event highlighted the need for higher education institutions to take proactive steps in advancing sustainable practices within their campuses. This theme will also guide UI GreenMetric’s efforts in 2025, underscoring the responsibility universities have not only to implement sustainable measures on campus but also to weave the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their research, teaching, and operation strategies. The gathering made it clear that sustainability must be embedded in every aspect of university life, and institutions must lead by example to create lasting change.
The meeting featured a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers from universities and organizations across the globe. These experts discussed the evolving role of Sustainability Offices in shaping university policies and programs, emphasizing the growing importance of integrating sustainability into both curriculum development and campus operations. Speakers also explored the need to empower students and staff to engage in green initiatives and contribute to their universities’ sustainability goals. A major focus was on the future of sustainable campuses, with discussions on how universities can adapt to emerging environmental challenges. Topics such as energy-efficient infrastructure, sustainable campus planning, and increasing student engagement in sustainability initiatives were addressed, offering insights into how universities are evolving to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world.
The event also underscored the significance of institutional leadership in driving sustainability efforts. University leaders were reminded of the unique position they hold in fostering a culture of sustainability that not only impacts their campuses but also influences their communities and the wider world. This leadership was seen as critical in ensuring that sustainability becomes a core principle guiding all aspects of university life.
A special acknowledgment was made to Abu Dhabi University for its pivotal role in hosting the event. Their leadership, hospitality, and commitment to advancing sustainability in higher education were key to the success of ISLM 2025. The university’s efforts to create a seamless and impactful experience for all involved were greatly appreciated, and their ongoing commitment to sustainability will continue to inspire other institutions globally.
Looking forward, UI GreenMetric is excited to continue its partnership with Abu Dhabi University and other institutions that share the same commitment to creating sustainable futures through education and collaboration. The insights and partnerships forged during ISLM 2025 are expected to have a lasting impact, and the ongoing dialogue surrounding sustainability will continue to shape the future of higher education in the years to come.
For more information on global sustainability efforts in higher education, visit greenmetric.ui.ac.id.
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Written by: Riska P. Hariyadi - Communication Specialist of UI GreenMetric
