Environmental Sustainability and Internationalization in Higher Education: A New Frontier in Research, Policy and Practice

Abstract

Ensuring environmental sustainability has gained global attention in recent years due to the effects of climate change and growing concerns about environmental degradation. A wide range of stakeholders have contributed to the urgent call for action, with recent analyses indicating both progress and alarming shortcomings in implementing needed changes. The field of international education has also begun focusing on environmental sustainability, with research exploring the intersections between internationalization and environmental impact. This special issue of the Journal of Studies in International Education presents timely perspectives on this complex topic, highlighting research on carbon footprints, air travel, sustainability rankings, and the role of professional associations. The issue also addresses the need for individual and collective action, and the importance of social justice and equity in achieving environmental sustainability. While the coverage is extensive, there is a notable absence of voices from certain regions and a lack of focus on student perspectives.