
• Help universities assess and improve their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices
• Provide training and tools for students, teachers, and staff to support sustainability and inclusion
• Create a shared platform where universities can measure their impact and learn from each other
• Promote cooperation across Europe to drive meaningful change in higher education
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is a framework to assess an organisation’s sustainability and impact, with HEIs especially positioned to drive the SDGs and 2030 agenda. It is built around three key dimensions: the Environmental, the Social, and the Governance. See below the explanation of each one of these areas.
HEIs are encouraged to integrate climate and sustainability strategies into their operations, embedding them in policies, processes, and evaluation.
HEIs should promote inclusion and equal opportunities, reaching under-represented groups and ensuring diversity among students, staff, and researchers.
HEIs are called to involve students and staff in governance and decision-making, fostering democracy, dialogue, and academic values.
The SHIFT project builds on the ESG framework, turning its principles into practical solutions for higher education. It develops innovative tools such as strategy guides, digital training, and interactive resources designed to support universities, staff, students, and stakeholders in becoming more sustainable, inclusive, and socially responsible.
The SHIFT project builds on this ESG framework, turning its principles into practical tools and resources for higher education.
