ISO 14001 and sustainability at universities: A Mexican case study

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to show some relevant issues about how the framework of the ISO 14001-based EMS contributes to the transition of higher education institutes (HEIs) towards a sustainable university. Design/methodology/approach - The triangulation methodology is used to compare a literature review with the experiences in some universities that have worked with the ISO 14001 framework, and also with the obtained results from a case study in regards to the implementation of such a system in the University of Sonora. Findings - The EMS structure has to be adapted to the academic structure; the substantive functions (teaching, research, and outreach) have to be considered; the intangibles (consciousness, involvement, student participation, among others) are very important; and the elaboration of a model proposal in order to make the proper adaptations from to the ISO 14001 scheme is suggested. As a result, the increment of its contribution in the way of the higher education institutions towards sustainability is expected. Originality/value - The paper shows how the scheme, ISO 14001, can help to promote and raise awareness of the university community towards sustainability.