Abstract

This study investigates the application of sustainable practices by international students in the tertiary sector in Auckland,
New Zealand and their knowledge of sustainability principles, with a specific focus on undergraduate and postgraduate
level students. The hypothesis tested in this investigation is that there is a difference in the level of understanding of
sustainability between undergraduates and postgraduates. A considerable number of international students arrived in
New Zealand in the year 2023 and will be joining the workforce shortly. Auckland, as a multicultural city, offers a unique
setting for observing the intersection of diverse cultural influences on sustainable behaviour. Although research has been
conducted regarding sustainability and education, it has been observed that research based on the levels of education
and its implications for understanding of sustainability is lacking. This creates a research gap in the area of study.
As a primary research instrument, a questionnaire was used to gather information on both the awareness of sustainability
and the ability to apply it of international students in Auckland. A quantitative data analysis including Pearson’s Chi-square
and Fisher’s Correlation Coefficient tests was conducted to identify the differences between the undergraduate and
postgraduate levels. The findings reveal key factors influencing the differential application of sustainability knowledge,
including cultural backgrounds, academic levels, and the practicality of sustainability practices in Auckland. No significant
difference in knowledge and application of sustainability between the two levels of study was identified. This indicates the
need for disciplined specific approaches to enhance sustainability practices in Auckland.

Keywords:
Circular economy, Food-energy-environment trilemma, Subjective norm, Sustainability and inner transformation, Triple bottom line.

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