Integrating ecological objectives in university campus strategic and spatial planning: a case study
International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education
ISSN: 1467-6370
Article publication date: 6 March 2019
Issue publication date: 23 May 2019
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of how ecological considerations can be integrated into campus strategic and statutory spatial planning. A process of developing ecological objectives and guidelines for inclusion in campus strategic and statutory spatial plans is presented.
Design/methodology/approach
This case study introduces a three-phase ecological assessment process developed and applied to the Technion – IIT campus. Ecological considerations are reviewed in multiple campus strategic and spatial plans (primarily in North America and Europe) and in institutional sustainability guidelines; biodiversity and ecosystem service surveys of the campus are conducted and considered with regard to planning; university administrative structures that enable the implementation of ecological planning guidelines are also assessed.
Findings
Ecological considerations (biodiversity conservation, habitat preservation and ecosystem integrity) play a relatively minor role in sustainability planning on university campuses. The concepts of connectivity and compactness are applied broadly, but generally refer to social and educational considerations. Physical planning provides an opportunity for integrating ecological priorities into the university’s mission.
Research limitations/implications
Some of the insights may not be generalizable, so it is crucial to continue accumulating similar studies. It is crucial, too, to conduct follow-up research, reporting on the ecological outcomes of plan implementation.
Practical implications
Ecological stewardship is commensurate with the sustainability commitments of universities. Considering their spatial extent and diverse locations, universities can assume an important role in ecological conservation.
Originality/value
Relatively little attention has been given to ecological considerations (biodiversity, ecological integrity and ecosystem services) in campus plans and sustainability documents. This paper suggests how universities can move towards fulfilling a role as ecological stewards through strategic and spatial planning.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors thank Lisa Darrigo for her insights regarding the administration of campus sustainability programs. They thank Professor Shamay Assif, Professor Yael Moria, Arch. Vera Tsubari, Dorit Garfunkel and their planning teams for their attention, insights and concern for the integration of ecological principles into the Technion planning process. They also thank many participants of the Association for Environmental Studies and Sciences (AESS) list-serv for their feedback and responses to our queries. Funding for research assistance was provided by an internal Technion grant.
Citation
Orenstein, D.E., Troupin, D., Segal, E., Holzer, J.M. and Hakima-Koniak, G. (2019), "Integrating ecological objectives in university campus strategic and spatial planning: a case study", International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, Vol. 20 No. 2, pp. 190-213. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-12-2017-0219
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited