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Comparative Assessment of Finnish University Campus Transformation Using New European Bauhaus–Inspired Sustainability Indicators

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  • Elżbieta Komarzyńska-Świeściak

    (Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland)

  • Magdalena Anna Strauchmann

    (Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland)

  • Aleksandra Urszula Tądel

    (Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland)

Abstract

University campuses are key testbeds for circular and climate-resilient transformation. This study evaluates how redevelopment strategies at eight Finnish campuses align with long-term environmental and social goals using indicators derived from the New European Bauhaus (NEB) framework. A mapping and qualitative synthesis of 97 peer-reviewed publications (2015–2024) was combined with a comparative analysis of sustainability strategies, carbon-neutrality roadmaps, and campus development strategies (2010–2024). Indicators were formulated based on campus-specific challenges and NEB core values—sustainability, inclusion, and esthetics—and operationalized across five areas: blue-green infrastructure, low-emission mobility, student housing, carbon reduction and renewables, and cultural heritage/community integration. Results show strong commitments to energy efficiency, mobility, and biodiversity. However, socio-spatial dimensions—student housing, participatory inclusion, and place identity—are weak or externalized. Reporting practices are uneven, and metrics are not standardized, limiting comparability across institutions. We argue that SDG-based monitoring should be complemented by NEB’s place-sensitive criteria to bridge strategy–implementation gaps and to future-proof campus redevelopment. An illustrative conceptual case for Helsinki’s Viikki campus demonstrates how the indicators can be integrated into design scenarios. Policy recommendations highlight how integrating NEB’s place-sensitive criteria with ESG/SDG frameworks can strengthen the strategic and spatial coherence of campus transformations.

Suggested Citation

  • Elżbieta Komarzyńska-Świeściak & Magdalena Anna Strauchmann & Aleksandra Urszula Tądel, 2025. "Comparative Assessment of Finnish University Campus Transformation Using New European Bauhaus–Inspired Sustainability Indicators," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(22), pages 1-54, November.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:22:p:10425-:d:1799441
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