An Integrated Multi-Criteria Framework for Evaluating Environmental Performance in Indian Higher Education Institutions

Résumé fourni par la source

Purpose: To develop a comprehensive and contextually relevant framework for evaluating green campus initiatives in Indian higher education institutions using a scientifically robust Green Campus Index (GCI). Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employs a hybrid Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) approach integrating the Weighted Sum Method (WSM), Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Relative Importance Index (RII). The purposive sampling method was used to select 249 sustainability experts, and data were collected through a questionnaire survey comprising a seven-point Likert scale, ranging from "extremely unimportant" to "highly significant," which was used to score the 56 attributes categorised into nine key components. The Analytical Hierarchy Process was used to determine the weightage of each element, and the findings informed the development of a Java-based evaluation tool. Findings: Energy conservation and water use emerged as the most critical components of campus sustainability. The resulting GCI framework allows for categorising institutions into five levels of sustainability accreditation and supports continuous improvement tailored to the Indian context. Research Limitation: The study focuses specifically on Indian institutions and relies on expert-based subjective inputs, which may limit generalizability. Practical Implication: The framework offers a scalable and user-friendly tool for Indian campuses to assess and enhance their sustainability efforts, aligning institutional practices with national and global environmental goals. Social Implication: By promoting resource-efficient, healthy, and environmentally conscious campuses, the framework encourages behavioural and infrastructural shifts that can contribute to broader societal sustainability. Originality/Value: This study presents a novel, integrative approach to green campus evaluation using MCDM techniques and a customised GCI, providing a practical benchmark and decision-support tool tailored for developing countries like India.

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