Howest has developed a new Key Performance Indicators (KPI) framework to make sustainability within the institution measurable and trackable. This framework, building upon the existing Sustainability Ambition Statement, includes 40 indicators explicitly linked to sub-goals of the United Nations (UN). The number of indicators has been deliberately limited to ensure measurability and feasibility.
The framework covers nine Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with increased focus on four priority goals: SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Each of these is assigned more indicators. The remaining five goals (SDG 3, 9, 10, 16, 17) are addressed by a compact set of three indicators.
The implementation of the framework follows a pragmatic approach, starting with available data and expanding annually. A central Green Office / Sustainability Council will manage the process and integrate it into existing procedures. The first phase, the baseline measurement, will establish current values based on available data, including an audit of data per KPI, assignment of responsible individuals, and planning of initial surveys for the 2026–2027 academic year.
The follow-up cycle, occurring each academic year, involves data collection and surveys in September-October, consolidation and analysis in November-December, reporting to the sustainability council and management in January, and the publication of a KPI dashboard in February-March. Governance will be anchored in existing Howest processes, featuring a publicly accessible dashboard and benchmarking through the Sustainability Compass (DHO).
Practical principles such as 'start small', 'simplicity over perfection', 'ownership per cluster', and involving students through bachelor theses and internships, will enhance support and provide learning experiences. Benchmarking with international rankings like THE Impact Rankings and AISHE is also planned. The KPI framework serves as the measurable translation of the ambition statement, ensuring that promises to students, staff, and society are concrete and trackable.
