Factors associated with green school practices of state universities: Inputs to Edutourism development plan

Abstract

The world is increasingly prioritizing environmental responsibility and sustainability in various industries, including tourism and education. State Universities (SUCs) play a significant role in promoting sustainability through their educational programs and research projects like Edutourism. However, few studies have explored how these initiatives intersect with Edutourism, a promising avenue for fostering sustainable tourism experiences. The study delved into the factors influencing green practices within SUCs, focusing on the availability of resources using the framework of the 5 As of Tourism (attraction, accommodation, accessibility, amenities, and activities), and the extent of green practices. A survey-correlational research design was used with administration, faculty, and students as respondents. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test and Pearson correlation were used to analyze the data. The study found accessibility and amenities have a strong positive correlation, with better amenities resulting into more attractions. Furthermore, schools that promote water conservation, have greater green environments, and have better access to amenities are more likely to adopt efficient waste management practices. But there is a weak correlation between accommodation and the availability of resources in terms of activities, and between accommodation and the presence of attractions. Additionally, the study revealed a significant connection between students' involvement, waste management and amenities, water conservation and resource availability, energy conservation and amenities, and comprehensive green school practices and amenities. Level 3 SUCs generally have higher level of resource availability and green practices implementation, but there is a need for continued improvement in resource availability and green practices, particularly for Level 2 SUCs.