Perceptions of a green university: an exploratory study among students

This study aims at exploring perceptions of a green university among its students. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 postgraduate and undergraduate students at a green campus in Germany through face-to-face interaction or through email. The interview questions were formulated following Han and Chan (2013). Green operation, green lifestyle and content delivery/assessments were perceived as the main attributes of green universities. Participants believed that both society and they themselves would benefit from a green campus. Participants perceived that student-oriented environmental activities and community promotions were insufficient on campus. Students from the green campus are expected to serve as role models in the community for green initiatives. Higher education faculties should also consider integrating green initiatives in curriculum designs. This study provides first-hand qualitative evidence from one of the top-performing green universities in the world. It provides insights for higher education administrators for the building as well as evaluation of environmental management systems for educational institutes.