The SOHACK project aimed to embed sustainable development within higher education by implementing innovative learning methodologies and fostering behavioral change among students and educators. Our primary objective was to establish a "social hacking" model within HEIs to address sustainability issues on campuses directly, focusing on areas like resource consumption, waste reduction, and environmental awareness. We sought to empower students as active participants in sustainable practices, equipping them with the skills to address complex environmental challenges in their local contexts. Additionally, the project aspired to enhance educators' capacity to integrate sustainability into curricula, fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, critical thinking, and ethical responsibility. By merging place-making and hackathon methods, we aimed to create a replicable, hands-on framework that encouraged HEI communities to actively engage in the sustainability agenda
The SOHACK project addressed the need for sustainable practices in higher education institutions (HEIs) by empowering students and staff to drive sustainability initiatives on their campuses. We applied for this project to tackle pressing issues such as energy and food waste in universities. With climate change demanding urgent action, we sought to innovate by integrating place-making and hackathon methodologies into education. Our goals included fostering sustainability skills in students, equipping educators with innovative teaching practices, and developing practical sustainability solutions for HEIs across Europe. SOHACK responded to the growing demand for experiential learning that instills a commitment to sustainability, filling a gap in traditional education where sustainability and active citizenship are often underrepresented. This project aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the European Green Deal.