SDG web-reporting in Universities: A cross-country study of Italy and Portugal

Universities play a crucial role in advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as they undertake research on sustainability-related issues, develop solutions to societal challenges, and educate future leaders. As transparency and accountability become central to sustainability efforts, SDG web-reporting has emerged as a key tool for universities to communicate their contributions. This study examines the extent and determinants of SDG web-reporting practices in 125 universities across Italy and Portugal. The findings reveal that, while universities in both countries recognize the importance of SDG web-reporting, disclosure remains limited, with Portuguese universities exhibiting slightly higher levels of disclosure. Factors influencing SDG web-reporting include institutions’ longevity, sustainability rankings and networks participation. This study underscores the need for institutional and stakeholder-driven efforts and standardized SDG reporting frameworks tailored to universities, offering practical recommendations for university administrators and policymakers to enhance digital transparency, accountability, and cross-country comparability in line with societal and global expectations. By bridging research gaps on cross-national SDG web-reporting practices by HEIs, the findings contribute to advancing the global 2030 Agenda.