@misc{10481/111113,
year = {2026},
month = {1},
url = {https://hdl.handle.net/10481/111113},
abstract = {Purpose – This paper aims to analyse the degree of implementation of the sustainable development goals
(SDGs), especially those related to environmental issues, in universities and determine whether there are
significant differences between universities in this regard. 
Design/methodology/approach – This study measured universities’ implementation of the SDGs, mainly
those related to environmental matters, based on a sample of 24 Central American public universities and a
survey of their rectors. A cluster analysis was used to identify different university profiles. 
Findings – The results indicate that Central American universities are adopting and integrating the SDGs in
response to the needs and demands of stakeholders or as an attempt to improve their international rankings,
subject to resource constraints and the need to preserve environmental biodiversity. The study identifies two
differentiated groups among universities: one associated with stakeholder engagement and internal
transformation, and another aligned with external positioning and international rankings. 
Practical implications – This study contributes to a greater understanding of the implementation of 
the SDGs in universities in biodiversity-rich developing countries. From a university management perspective,
the results suggest how universities can gradually achieve the targets set by the SDGs at all levels and how the
implementation of the SDGs affects sustainability rankings. 
Social implications – The study highlights the growing importance of sustainability at the university level
and the positive effects of implementing the SDGs, as shown by the perceptions of university rectors. 
Originality/value – Information on the implementation of the SDGs at the university level remains scarce,
and this study contributes to the existing literature. The findings suggest that universities in various Central
American countries can serve as a guide for other universities in the region.},
publisher = {Emerald},
keywords = {Higher education},
keywords = {SDGs},
keywords = {Governance},
keywords = {Central America},
title = {Environmental sustainable development goals in Central  American public universities: the vision of the rectors},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSHE-10-2024-0760},
author = {Flórez-Parra, Jesús Mauricio and Araya-Leandro, Carlos Eduardo and López-Pérez, María Victoria and López-Hernández, Antonio Manuel},
}