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Translating the Global Script of the Sustainable University: The Case of the University of Oslo

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Higher Education in a Sustainable Society

Part of the book series: CSR, Sustainability, Ethics & Governance ((CSEG))

Abstract

In this chapter, Translating the Global Script of the Sustainable University: The Case of the University of Oslo, Rómulo Pinheiro, Maryam Faghihimani and Jarle Trondal discuss the green strategy of University of Oslo. This chapter, which is conceptually based on neo-institutional theory, approaches the notion of the ‘sustainable organisation’ as a global, legitimate script, i.e. a dominant hegemonic idea which, once adopted and consequently adapted locally, is likely to enhance both internal and external legitimacy. This analysis is built on the empirical case of the University of Oslo (UiO), that sheds light on the ways in which the notion of a ‘sustainable university’ has been locally ‘translated’ in order to fit (be aligned with) contextual circumstances, including path- and resource- dependencies, strategic intentions and aspirations, and internal values and norms. More specifically, the chapter investigates the rationale for, and the key actors behind, the design and subsequent implementation of a ‘sustainable strategic platform’ at UiO, and casts light on the degree of institutionalisation: rules, standard operating procedures and resource allocations across the board.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Political Science and Management, University of Agder, Norway, 422, 4604, Kristiansand, Norway

    Rómulo Pinheiro & Jarle Trondal

  2. Center for Cultural Diplomacy & Development, Holmenkollveien 119C, 0787, Oslo, Norway

    Maryam Faghihimani

Authors
  1. Rómulo Pinheiro
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  2. Maryam Faghihimani
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  3. Jarle Trondal
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Correspondence to Rómulo Pinheiro .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Working Life & Innovation, University of Agder, Grimstad, Norway

    Hans Chr. Garmann Johnsen

  2. Department of Economics, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway

    Stina Torjesen

  3. Department of Working Life & Innovation, University of Agder, Grimstad, Norway

    Richard Ennals

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Pinheiro, R., Faghihimani, M., Trondal, J. (2015). Translating the Global Script of the Sustainable University: The Case of the University of Oslo. In: Johnsen, H., Torjesen, S., Ennals, R. (eds) Higher Education in a Sustainable Society. CSR, Sustainability, Ethics & Governance. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15919-5_13

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