The research was conducted within the framework of the project “Global Opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals (GO4SDGs) in Central Asia and the South Caucasus”. Green Nudges are positive and gentle persuasive ways to encourage sustainable behavior in universities. For example, placing more “sustainable” food in a prominent place in the dining hall for students would be a nudge, while leaving students free to choose what they want to eat. The concept is presented in the United Nations Environment Program's (UNEP) “The Little Book of Green Nudges.”
Forty-three universities from Central Asia and the South Caucasus took part in the study. The research resulted in reports containing unique data on sustainable development practices, successes and challenges faced by educational institutions in the regions.
Interesting facts from the survey:
🔹 Energy conservation is the most popular of all green nudges.
🔹 84% of universities have installed energy-saving lamps, and 77% are turning off equipment rather than leaving it in “sleep mode.”
🔹 Financial constraints are a major barrier to developing sustainable practices.
🔹 The University of Business and Technology in Georgia has made progress in reducing paper waste by implementing electronic document management and digital forms of communication.
🔹 East Kazakhstan Technical University saved 2,340 cubic meters of water per year by introducing green nudges.
🔹 Some universities in Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia are introducing green procurement, sustainable transportation solutions and reduced material consumption.
The research shows that universities are actively introducing energy saving, water conservation and recycling initiatives, but face barriers in funding and student engagement.
📖 Read the experts' reports by following this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1FCSrEgbdE5vikJKPrTq4CdoDX32jGoIS?usp=sharing
