WEEK 9 - FIELDWORK (IIUM AS SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS)

This week, the focus shifts from theory to practice, encouraging us to look at IIUM as a living example of sustainability. By engaging directly with the campus, we are invited to consider what truly makes an environment "sustainable." The task isn't just about checking boxes; it's about observing the subtle, interconnected aspects that shape a campus that strives to balance environmental, social, and economic well-being.

A sustainable campus is a multifaceted concept. It isn’t defined by a single measure but by a combination of factors—thoughtfully designed spaces, energy-efficient infrastructure, conscientious waste management, and how sustainability is woven into daily life and academic pursuits. The presence of sustainability in education, research, and practices should not just be an afterthought, but an integral part of the campus identity.

At IIUM, these principles are already in action. As the first Malaysian university to earn the International Green Gown Award and the title of "Sustainability Institution of the Year," the campus has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable practices. But the fieldwork isn’t just about recognizing these accomplishments. It’s about taking stock of what we see around us and asking: How can students, as the heart of this institution, contribute to the ongoing journey toward sustainability? How can we innovate and expand upon what’s already in motion?

This exercise encourages us not only to appreciate the progress that has been made but also to imagine the future of IIUM as a model of sustainability—a place where every student is both an observer and an active change agent.