Table 8.

Takeaways management operations literature at macro-level

Level	SDGs	What are the practices/strategies adopted to pursue the SDGs?
Macro	Single	Incorporating of sustainability values (e.g., peacefulness and inclusiveness) in operations and governance of HEIs Supporting the ESD from the top levels Presenting structural and operational changes to ‘walk the talk’ Institutional strategic commitment to partnerships, networks, and stakeholders Encouraging sustainable behavior among staff and students
	Multiple	Promote targeted SDGs through Responsible Management Education Coordinating and supporting of ICT adoption by a particular organisational unit
	Overall	Putting SDGs at the core of the governance and management of the university, welcoming all the stakeholders Embedding sustainability into university business strategies, decision-making processes, and practices, Adopting recognized planning, assessment and reporting tools considering SDGs as drivers Positioning governmental and institutional funding; shifting key performance indicators; enhancing cross-disciplinary work; aligning mission/vision statements; and legitimising SDG-focused projects Adopting well-framed approaches by governance bodies to identify the actions required to reach sustainability goals according to the 2030 Agenda, e.g. backcasting approach Embracing shared leadership and collaborative governance approach to bring SD in HEIs Recognising and incorporating cultural adjustments across the HEI Improving the sustainability mindset all over the HEI bodies Sharing the best practices from other HEIs Procurement of viable plans, sufficient funding, and assignment of a core group of capable people to manage the plan