Integrating Sustainability in UK Universities: A Complex Systems Approach

Recently, universities have transformed from passive contributors to active participants in the global sustainability movement. However, progress has been hindered by a lack of robust theoretical frameworks. This paper employs the lens of complex systems to systematically analyse the sustainability approaches of all 140 UK universities, with semi-structured interviews conducted with sustainability managers at 25 of them. Our typology of sustainability approaches reveals a paradox of control: as universities relinquish control over sustainability integration, they create conditions for effective organisational change, particularly when directing resources toward research and teaching. Our theoretical concept underscores an inverse relationship between organisational control and sustainability impact. Successful approaches align sustainability with instrumental value-adding activities, such as research and teaching, acknowledging the intrinsic complexity of sustainable change. The practice-relevant findings provide valuable insights for change agents in universities, empowering them to advocate for actions, and assist university managers in making informed decisions about implementation.