Sustainable Universities: A Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis in Higher Education

Cristina Veres (), Maria Tănase, Ioan Bogdan Bacos and Mihaela Kardos
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Cristina Veres: Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Targu-Mures, Nicolae Iorga Street, 1, 540088 Targu-Mures, Romania
Maria Tănase: Mechanical Engineering Department, Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, 100680 Ploiesti, Romania
Ioan Bogdan Bacos: Doctoral School of I.O.S.U.D., George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Gheorghe Marinescu Street, 38, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
Mihaela Kardos: Doctoral School of I.O.S.U.D., George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Gheorghe Marinescu Street, 38, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-19

Abstract: Sustainability in higher education has become a focal point of global discourse, reflecting the strategic role universities play in addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges. This study explores recent advancements in sustainable and green university practices through a comprehensive bibliometric and thematic analysis of Web of Science articles published between 2020 and 2024. While previous research often examines sustainability practices in isolation, a clear understanding of how digital technologies, institutional leadership, and stakeholder engagement interconnect to drive sustainability remains underdeveloped. This study addresses this gap by integrating bibliometric mapping with thematic analysis, providing a holistic view of the evolving landscape. Emerging themes include the role of digital technologies in enhancing operational efficiency and fostering inclusivity, as well as the increasing reliance on standardized metrics to measure progress. By bridging theoretical insights with actionable strategies, this research contributes to advancing sustainability in higher education, offering a roadmap for institutions to align their practices with global sustainability goals.

Keywords: VOSviewer; sustainable universities; green university; higher education; bibliometric analysis; thematic analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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