The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) at the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), in collaboration with the Institution of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL) and the Central Environmental Authority (CEA), hosted a workshop on University Environmental Compliance on May 14, 2024, at the Central Environmental Authority Auditorium. This workshop aimed to enhance environmental compliance within university campuses, aligning with the criteria outlined by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and the QS World University Rankings. Dr. Chalaka Fernando from the Australian National University, Canberra, served as the resource person, sharing valuable insights on university sustainability practices. Many goverment and private universities participated in this programme gaining valuable insights on univeristy environmnetal compliance.

Workshop Objectives

      • Increase Knowledge and Awareness: Enhance understanding of environmental sustainability issues and opportunities within the university community.
      • Foster Environmental Literacy and Stewardship: Engage students, faculty, and staff to promote a culture of environmental responsibility.
      • Promote Sustainable Practices on Campus: Integrate sustainable practices into daily campus activities and foster a sustainable university culture.
      • Showcase Commitment to Sustainability: Demonstrate the university’s commitment to sustainability, positively influencing university rankings.
      • Explore Sustainability and Ranking Metrics: Analyze the link between sustainability initiatives and university ranking improvements.
      • Enhance University Reputation: Highlight sustainability’s role in enhancing the university’s reputation and attracting prospective students.
      • Develop Sustainability Curriculum and Research: Encourage the development of sustainability-focused curriculum and research projects.
      • Platform for Sharing Best Practices: Establish a collaborative environment for sharing best practices and success stories in university sustainability efforts.
Aligned with broader goals of embedding sustainability within higher education, this workshop served as a catalyst for action, transparency, and a stronger commitment to environmental objectives. It addressed the growing interest among students, faculty, and departments in contributing to a sustainable future, demonstrating how universities can lead by example in environmental stewardship and sustainability.