Sustainability at the University of Haifa: Insights from our Journey

Behavioral Approaches to Promote SDG on Campus

Prof. Ofer Arazy, Director of Innovation & Sustainability

December 16, 2024, Online

The largest research university in northern Israel, situated in a geographical environment of mountains, city and sea, in the heart of a unique ecological-social-economic tapestry. A symbol of excellence in teaching and interdisciplinary research in Israel and the world.

The strategic plan of the University of Haifa focuses on social and environmental issues as part of its efforts to improve human well-being and Israeli society. Its public commitment will be woven into the fabric of the social, cultural, community and geographic life of the residents of the State of Israel.

The University of Haifa will be the engine for the development of social, public and business leadership and will promote real and day-to-day coexistence between members of all religions and denominations in Israel.

University of Haifa: Our Vision

Academia’s Third Mission

in Impact

“Behavioral Approaches to Promote SDG on Campus“�Some clarifications:

• “Sustainable Development” (SD), rather than “Sustainability”
• “Promote SDG on campus”
• Change in professional activity
• Education to change behavior

“Behavioral Approaches to Promote SDG on Campus“�Some clarifications:

“Tell me and I forget

Teach me and I remember

Involve me and I learn”

Benjamin Franklin

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Changing Behavior of Research Staff [1]�Overcoming Resistance

Basic Research

Fundamental Understanding

Applied Research

Considerations of Use

מחקר בסיסי <-> שימושי

Quest for Fundamental Understanding

Consideration of Use

L

H

L

H

מחקר בסיסי <-> שימושי

• The most impactful research is one that combines theoretical and practical value: Pasteur's Quadrant
• Translational research: basic research “translated” to practice
• Use-inspired basic research: applied research theorized
• Pasteur's Quadrant represents the least explored type of research

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Changing Behavior of Research Staff [2]

• Promoting research that matters

Spheres of impact:

• Shaping policy
• Innovating work practices
• Educating the public

Promoting partnerships

https://this-is-my-earth.org/

Changing Behavior of Research Staff [3]

• Promoting meaningful education

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Changing Behavior of Administrative Staff

• Involve staff in sustainable operations
• E.g. community garden

Changing Behavior of Students

• Activities by the Dean of Students
• Unit for Social Involvement, e.g.:
• Green Campus initiative
• Blue Team initiative

Wrapping Up

• We have a clear vision, which places human, social and environmental values at the center
• We have developed a mission statement
• We have just begun implementing, and there is so much more to do