The launch event for the 2024 UI GreenCityMetric Ranking took place on Wednesday, 21 February 2024. Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M., M.Sc., the chairperson of UI GreenMetric, and Dr. Drs. Amran, M.T., the Acting Director General of Regional Administration Development at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Indonesia, graced the occasion. Both of them delivered an inspiring opening speech, encouraging cities and regencies in Indonesia to actively participate in this year's rankings. Following the opening remarks, the agenda proceeded with a comprehensive socialization session about UI GreenCityMetric, including insights into its development and guidance on filling out the questionnaires. Dr. Junaidi, S.S., M.A., and Dr. Nyoman Suwartha, S.T., M.T., M.Agr., Vice-Chairs of UI GreenMetric, provided valuable information during this session. The event unfolded smoothly, with enthusiastic participation from attendees eager to understand the intricacies of UI GreenCityMetric Ranking. Beyond the ranking system, the UI GreenCityMetric team introduced service packages tailored for cities and regencies aiming to enhance their sustainability programs. Dr. Junaidi, S.S., M.A., elaborated on the service package, emphasizing its role in facilitating in-depth evaluations through expert-led fact-file analyses. Cities and regencies interested in subscribing to the service package are urged to act promptly, as the UI GreenCityMetric questionnaire is now open. Providing substantial evidence of their sustainability efforts is essential for a comprehensive assessment. Written by: Yovita

In celebration of National Waste Day on the 21st of February each year, we seized a valuable opportunity to collaborate with Bank Sampah Bersinar, represented by its Director, Fei Febri, and UN SDSN Youth Indonesia, featuring Salma Ranggita in her role as Network Coordinator. This collaborative initiative facilitated a profound exploration of innovative waste solutions with a vision towards ensuring a sustainable future. During the insightful discussion, Fei Febri emphasized the crucial need to revisit the grassroots of waste management, underscoring the fundamental importance of instilling basic knowledge in waste sorting among individuals. She highlighted that this foundational knowledge serves as a cornerstone, laying the essential groundwork without which progress toward more advanced waste solutions would be challenging. Fei Febri's perspective underscored the necessity of building a strong foundation in waste management education for everyone, emphasizing that it is the key to advancing to the next level in our collective journey toward sustainable waste solutions. Salma Ranggita brought attention to the pivotal role of youth in environmental stewardship and the transformative power of partnerships among various stakeholders. She emphasized that fostering a supportive environment is critical to achieving heightened awareness and actionable efforts. Salma stressed that cultivating a supportive ecosystem is essential for youth engagement and collaboration with environmental stakeholders, underlining the need for collective action to address pressing environmental concerns. As we collaborate with Bank Sampah Bersinar and UN SDSN Youth Indonesia, we aim to showcase our commitment to environmental sustainability. Through these collaborative efforts, we strive to raise awareness, inspire action, and contribute to the ongoing global dialogue on innovative waste solutions. By addressing the core aspects of waste management, fostering youth involvement, and building meaningful partnerships, we envision a future where our collective actions lead to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world. Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

The 2023 UI GreenMetric Online Course on Sustainability represents a groundbreaking global educational initiative led by top universities across four continents and eleven diverse countries. Aligns with UI GreenMetric's second thematic priority of creating global sustainable leaders, this course is exclusively tailored for members of the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings Network, serves as a comprehensive introduction of Sustainable Development Goals suitable for both undergraduate and master's level students. In today's world, characterized by the pressing need for social inclusivity, environmental sustainability, and financial viability, students must gain a nuanced understanding of economic dynamics, societal structures, and environmental ecosystems. Equally vital is the exploration of the far-reaching impacts of human activities on our environment, coupled with the presentation of innovative solutions to address these challenges. Building upon the resounding success of the past two years, this program has expanded its collaborations to include universities from Brazil, United Arab Emirates, Colombia, Ecuador, Hungary, Indonesia, Tunisia, and is this year extending to Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, and Egypt. The course itself is an outcome of collaboration among eleven esteemed universities, organized into three classes, Class A, led by the University of Sao Paulo, Universitas Indonesia, El Bosque University, University of Szeged, University of Sharjah, Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, and the University of Sousse. Class B, spearheaded by the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Mahidol University, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta, University of Pécs, Zonguldak Bülent Ecevit University, Universitas Diponegoro, and October 6 University. Class C, conducted by the Institut Teknologi Nasional Bandung, Telkom University, Universitas Sam Ratulangi, Universitas Diponegoro, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Universitas Pancasila, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Universitas Padjajaran, Universitas Pattimura, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Universitas Palangka Raya, Universitas Lampung, and Universitas Sriwijaya. The 3-month program begin on 7th (Class C), 13th (Class B), and 14th (Class A) September 2023 and received enthusiastic participation from 310 students. UI GreenMetric aims to equip students with the necessary tools and understanding to contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. We hope that students who have joined this online course will enjoy the presentations provided by the lecturers and eventually foster collaboration among students from 27 universities in different countries. Together, students can develop sustainability solutions not only for their daily lives but also for the world. The courses have yielded significant achievements for students who participated, inspiring them to delve deeper into sustainability issues, particularly those aligned with SDGs Indicators. Palmira Grefa from ESPOCH, Ecuador, expressed, “The course has been an enriching experience that has strengthened my knowledge base and skills.” In addition to their academic pursuits, students navigate their studies across multiple campuses, shouldering responsibilities for their coursework and fostering teamwork. Yerlin Cayambe from ESPOCH shared, “I have learned how to be a leader and how to work in a team. Moreover, navigating diverse situations has taught me to be empathetic towards others.” We aspire for the continuation and expansion of the UI GreenMetric online course, attracting a growing number of students in the years ahead. This is aimed at nurturing future leaders in sustainability! Gallery: Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

After the success of the UI GreenMetric Instagram Live Discussion series in 2023, we are expanding our platform in the realm of social media this year to reach a wider audience through YouTube's Online Podcast, titled 'Our Voice for Sustainability.' This initiative aims to provide viewers with an in-depth discussion between a guest speaker and an expert moderator from the UI GreenMetric reviewer/assessor community, fostering a broader conversation in the field of sustainable campuses. On Friday, January 26, 2024, the premiere was streamed live, featuring the representative of the 2023 Most Sustainable University in the UI GreenMetric rankings, Ir. Erna Maters, the Policy CSR Officer of Wageningen University and Research. The session was seamlessly moderated by an expert from the UI GreenMetric Team, Dr. -Ing. Ova Candra Dewi, S.T., M.Sc., GP, who also serves as the Head of the Urban and Regional Planning Master Program at the Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Indonesia (PWK FTUI). During this engaging discussion, Dr. -Ing. Ova meticulously posed thought-provoking questions to elicit in-depth responses and clear explanations for the viewers. Erna highlighted the importance of fostering a sustainable strategy at Wageningen University and Research, emphasizing the engagement of all stakeholders within academia, from university leaders to students. This approach involves setting ambitious yet realistic goals throughout the university's organizational structure, ensuring that objectives align with the principles of sustainability. She emphasized that achieving a sustainable mindset extending beyond the next generations requires more than just incorporating it into the curriculum. It involves instilling in future generations the character of responsible citizens committed to protecting their environment. This transformation should commence at the community level and extend to encompass the entire world. As an institution, it is essential for us to acknowledge the crucial role that universities play in society, especially in shaping the education of future generations and leading the way in sustainability initiatives. UI GreenMetric is committed to championing sustainability. We remain steadfast in our collaboration with institutions and environmental communities to amplify awareness about the significance of sustainability, particularly within the higher education sphere. Stream live on UI GreenMetric's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/live/H2x_oVJZSug?si=iunrtxCZaZYAwwqT Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

On January 12th, 2024, UI GreenMetric, in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, United Kingdom, and Universidad del Rosario, Colombia, hosted an Instagram Live Discussion titled "Sustainable Campus 2024: A Strategic Roadmap for A Greener Tomorrow". This event marked the second installment of the series, delving into the perspectives of universities ranking in the top 50 globally, with Nottingham Trent University securing the second position and Universidad del Rosario at 32nd place. Guided by the adept moderation of Sabrina H. Ramadianti, Coordinator for Program, Communication, and Partnership at UI GreenMetric, the virtual stage was graced by distinguished speakers, each contributing their profound insights to the discourse. Laura Mayhew-Manchon, the Head of Sustainability at Nottingham Trent University, underscored the imperative need for collaborative efforts among university leaders, stakeholders, communities, and the entire academic civitas. Emphasizing the essence of cultivating awareness, especially in the paradigm shift of policies and collaborations with governments, Laura set the tone for a united commitment towards sustainable strategies in the coming year. In a complementary perspective, Claudia Dulce Romero, Director of Social Outreach and Alumni Relations at Universidad del Rosario, illuminated the significance of UI GreenMetric criteria as instrumental tools in achieving sustainability goals. Romero articulated that these criteria serve as a comprehensive measure, offering insights into the implementation of existing initiatives, identifying achieved goals, and pinpointing areas for improvement in the forthcoming year. As the curtains draw on this enlightening discussion, it becomes evident that the journey towards a greener tomorrow is a collective endeavor. The echoes of this dialogue will resonate in the consciousness of universities, urging them to align their efforts, leverage UI GreenMetric criteria, and march forward in unison towards a more sustainable future. Streaming Live: https://www.instagram.com/p/C2AJNF5xdA6/ Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

On January 7th and 8th, 2024, Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, and Prof. Dr. Ir. Raldi Hendro Koestoer, assessor of UI GreenMetric, had the privilege of visiting Qassim University in Buraydah, Saudi Arabia. This visit marked a pivotal alignment with Qassim University's acquisition to the UI GreenMetric Platinum Service Package, providing an invaluable opportunity for a firsthand assessment of the university's commitment to a sustainable and green campus. Qassim University On the inaugural assessment day, Prof. Riri and Prof. Raldi were led on an extensive campus tour by the Qassim University team. The tour offered a detailed exploration of the entire campus, showcasing innovative initiatives and highlighting the implementation of green technologies. Post the campus tour, they visited the office of the Deputy Academic at Qassim University and continued to the sustainability office in the Department of Agriculture. This was followed by a comprehensive presentation by Prof. Riri and Prof. Raldi, wherein they not only acknowledged Qassim University's commendable aspects but also provided constructive insights into areas for improvement. Site Visit Situation Meeting Situation Day 1 On the second assessment day, a meeting with Prof. Mohammed AlSaawi, Vice Rector of Qassim University, took place, culminating in the presentation of a certificate of compliance and a prestigious 4 out of 5 trees rating by UI GreenMetric—an achievement deserving of immense pride for Qassim University. The activities then continued with a site visitation to the waste and water treatment system of Qassim University, further underscoring the institution's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Meeting Situation Day 2 Bestowal of Certificate of Compliance and Trees Rating Certificates of Compliance and Trees Rating of Qassim University Token of Appreciation from UI GreenMetric to Qassim University This opportunity has indeed paved the way for further enhancements at Qassim University, nurturing a collective dedication to advancing sustainable environments and campuses. UI GreenMetric remains committed to supporting universities worldwide that seek to enhance and improve their sustainability strategies through our service packages. Gallery: Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

Launched in 2022, the UI GreenMetric Instagram Live Discussion Series has developed into a monthly social media initiative, fostering collaboration with almost 33 universities across 14 countries to this day. This dynamic platform catalyzes the unveiling of eco-green strategies employed by campuses across the globe. Beyond university partnerships, our collaboration extends to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Indonesia and Mexico, as well as the German Embassy in Indonesia and the Environmental Agency of the City of Semarang, Indonesia. Designed to go beyond the traditional scope, this series brings together experts, environmentalists, and enthusiasts, creating a unique space for delving into sustainability within university campuses. Each live session facilitates insightful conversations that shed light on diverse approaches taken by universities and local communities to address environmental challenges. From sustainable infrastructure and waste management to renewable energy projects and biodiversity conservation, the series covers a broad spectrum, showcasing the unwavering commitment of academic institutions to creating eco-friendly and resilient campuses. The UI GreenMetric Instagram Live Discussion Series not only shares success stories and best practices but also invites thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners to contribute their expertise, discussing the latest innovations shaping the landscape of green campuses. This collaborative approach not only keeps our audience updated on the latest developments but also encourages knowledge exchange among institutions, all working towards a positive impact on the environment. The global reach of the UI GreenMetric Instagram Live Discussion Series extends beyond borders, connecting a diverse audience worldwide. Leveraging the accessibility of social media, this inclusivity promotes a shared understanding of challenges and opportunities in sustainable development, fostering a sense of global solidarity in the collective pursuit of environmentally conscious practices within academic institutions. Serving as a beacon, the UI GreenMetric Instagram Live Discussion Series guides universities and their stakeholders toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future. Gallery: Live streaming all discussion series at https://www.instagram.com/ui.greenmetric/ Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

On December 29th, 2023, the UI GreenMetric, in collaboration with Integral University of Lucknow, India, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan, and IPB University, Indonesia, hosted an Instagram Live Discussion Series titled "Sustainable Campus 2024: A Strategic Roadmap for A Greener Future." This event introduced the new theme for UI GreenMetric in 2024, focusing on "Instituting UI GreenMetric World University Rankings: The Way Forward." Moderated by Yovita Yiwananda, Social Media and Communication of the UI GreenMetric team, distinguished speakers graced the virtual stage, each contributing their expertise to the discourse. Dr. Ambrina Sardar Khan, Head of Environmental Sciences at Integral University Lucknow, India, emphasized the need to build a long-term sustainable strategy by starting with a shift in mindset and increasing public awareness within the academic community about sustainability. She suggested introducing eco-friendly trend exhibitions and celebrating Sustainability Campus Day to achieve this. Dr. Muhammad Bilal Tahir, Director of the Quality Enhancement Cell at Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan, added to the dialogue. He emphasized the importance of incorporating sustainability into every academic discipline to create awareness among students. This includes integrating sustainability into international-level programs, addressing sustainability development goals, and engaging students in various activities. Aligning with this profound perspective, Dr. Heriansyah Putra, Vice Head of the Sustainable Campus Development Board, IPB University, Indonesia highlighted the significance of policies, collective awareness, and leadership within the academic community. He emphasized the need to introduce sustainability aspects in all activities, incorporate sustainability courses, and garner support from university leaders and local government authorities. In closing, the insightful discussions during the Instagram Live series have illuminated the critical path toward a sustainable future for academic institutions. The collaborative efforts of these esteemed speakers from diverse backgrounds underscore the importance of a holistic approach, encompassing mindset shifts, cultural celebrations, interdisciplinary integration, and leadership commitment. As we embark on this journey towards a greener and more sustainable world, let us carry forward the wisdom shared today. The commitment to sustainability is not merely a goal but a collective responsibility, and together, we can shape a brighter and greener future for generations to come. Streaming Live: https://www.instagram.com/p/C1cN34gxem2/ Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

On November 21, 2023, UI GreenMetric was honored to participate in the prestigious event themed "For the Sustainable Development of Civilization: Cooperation, Science, Education, Technology" The specific focus of the event was "Africa’s Pathway to the 17 SDGs: An Integrated Approach". As a significant addition to the agenda, UI GreenMetric seized the opportunity to collaborate with RUDN and conducted a National Workshop on UI GreenMetric for Universities in Russia on November 22, 2023. The inaugural day of the event unfolded seamlessly, featuring prominent figures in Russia, including President of Russia Vladimir Putin, Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee and President of RUDN University Vladimir Filippov, and Rector of RUDN University Oleg Yastrebov. Representing UI GreenMetric were Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M., M.Sc., the Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, and Dr. Nyoman Suwartha, the Vice-Chair of UI GreenMetric. They shared their perspectives on Africa’s Sustainable Development, with a particular emphasis on sustainable campuses. Vladimir Putin, President of Russia Oleg Yastrebov, Rector of RUDN Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, Chairperson of UI GreenMetric Dr. Nyoman Suwartha, Vice-Chair of UI GreenMetric The first day continued with insights from distinguished speakers, such as Ayele Teshome, the Minister of Health of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and Ramatulai Wurie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education of the Republic of Sierra Leone. Each speaker provided comprehensive presentations on Africa’s concerted efforts to achieve sustainable development goals. Discussion Situation Event Situation The second day featured the UI GreenMetric National Workshop for Universities in Russia. The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Prof. Vladimir Filippov, President of RUDN University, Prof. Elena Savenkova, Director of the Institute of Environmental Engineering at RUDN University, and Dr. Nyoman Suwartha, Vice-Chair of UI GreenMetric, who attended in person in Russia. The workshop drew significant participation, inviting speakers from various universities in Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan, including: Stepan Bykov, Vice-Rector, Irkutsk National Research Technical University Nadezhda Strigelskaya, International Sakharov Environmental Institute of Belarusian State University, Belarus Representatives of Saint-Petersburg State University Representatives of Nizhny Novgorod State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering Pavel Medvedev, Irina Akhmedova, South-Russian State University Representatives of State University on Land Use Planning Representatives of Abai University, Kazakhstan Representatives of Volgograd State University Sofia Nekrasova, Polina Nechaeva, RUDN University Galley: Workshop Situation Through this workshop, UI GreenMetric aspires to cultivate a mindset and raise awareness about the crucial role of Higher Education in achieving a sustainable future. Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin

On the inaugural day of the event, December 26th, the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan, in collaboration with the Institute of Telecommunication and Informatics of Turkmenistan took center stage, hosting the grand Youth Forum Conference. Themed "Happy Youth with Arkadag Serdar", this conference was aimed to support graduate students and young scientists throughout the year. A key highlight of the day was the active participation of all Turkmenistan universities, proudly showcasing their UI GreenMetric certificates of participation at their booths. This collective display marked a pivotal moment, signifying the unwavering commitment of Turkmenistan's educational institutions to global standards of environmental consciousness. The Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, Gurbangul Atayeva (left) and Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, Prof. Riri Fitri Sari (right)   UI GreenMetric’s Certificates Bestowal The following day, December 27th, we witnessed the convergence of international guests at the event venue. The Minister of Education of Turkmenistan, Gurbangul Atayeva, inaugurated the event, setting the stage for government department exhibitions, conferences, and presentations by key ministers. Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari, M.M., M.Sc., the Chairperson of UI GreenMetric, had the honor of officially bestowing the 2023 UI GreenMetric final rankings certificates in person to Turkmenistan universities. In addition, UNDP Turkmenistan bestowed prestigious awards, recognizing the remarkable achievements of university rectors. The impactful day concluded with certificates conferred upon artistic and sports heroes, a national concert attended by 6,000 government officials and youth representatives, and an exclusive dinner at Yildiz Hotel for esteemed foreign invitees. Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari’s Presentation December 28th unfolded as a day of exploration and academic exchange, featuring visits to the Smart and Sustainable City "Arkadag" and meetings with Point of Contacts (PiC) from 8 universities affiliated with UI GreenMetric. Prof. Dr. Ir. Riri Fitri Sari delivered a lecture to a captivated audience of 300 students, faculty members, and university leaders, emphasizing the day's dedication to fostering connections and disseminating knowledge. The journey continued on December 29th with a campus tour and a visit to the second campus of the Institute of Telecommunication and Informatics of Turkmenistan. This itinerary underscored the importance of hands-on experiences, providing insights into the practical applications of sustainable initiatives within the academic landscape. This comprehensive agenda successfully showcased Turkmenistan's steadfast commitment to sustainability, educational excellence, and international collaboration, positioning the nation at the forefront of global efforts toward a more environmentally conscious future. Gallery: Written by: Yovita Y. Yamin