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The Environmental Sustainability of Brazilian Universities: Barriers and Pre-conditions

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Integrating Sustainability Thinking in Science and Engineering Curricula

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to discuss the application of sustainability in Brazilian universities, emphasizing the preconditions for implementation and the barriers and difficulties for its application. The methodology approach is based in a theoretical background and on the gathering of empirical evidence. Due to the scope of the study and the nature of the methodological approach, the survey, by no means, can be regarded as representative. However, since it is combined with the review of the literature, it builds a rough profile of the status of the sustainability in Brazilian universities. Larger studies can be undertaken at a later stage, provided that the necessary staff time and funding are available. The results indicate positive experiences and opportunities; risks, threats and obstacles; creativity and new solutions for Brazilian universities. This paper will be useful to academics and researchers interested in the topic of sustainability in higher education institutions in Brazil and other developing countries.

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Acknowledgments

Acknowledgements the CAPES for the financial support for the research postdoctoral of Prof. Luciana L. Brandli under the supervision of Prof. Walter Leal Filho at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (Process 9285-13-0).

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Correspondence to Luciana Londero Brandli .

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Brandli, L.L., Leal Filho, W., Frandoloso, M.A.L., Korf, E.P., Daris, D. (2015). The Environmental Sustainability of Brazilian Universities: Barriers and Pre-conditions. In: Leal Filho, W., Azeiteiro, U., Caeiro, S., Alves, F. (eds) Integrating Sustainability Thinking in Science and Engineering Curricula. World Sustainability Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-09474-8_5

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