# Sustainability Audit of University Websites in Poland:
## 5 Discussion  
Considering the limited availability of international studies that compare the environmental impact of public institution websites, the benchmarking approach proposed in the present study should be considered a significant contribution to the research field. Analyses to date focus on various aspects of sustainable digital design but rarely quantify the environmental dimension. First, the results can be compared with studies on other sectors and those using different methods. Researchers from the University of Leeds estimated universities' carbon footprints based on financial data and emissions across the entire supply chain using environmentally extended input-output analysis (EEIOA) [50]. The present study examines the digital carbon footprint, as measured by a Green SEO audit. Although the scope of the analysis seems narrower, it facilitates the precise identification of specific emission sources and implementation of optimisation efforts. The two approaches are complementary; one supports strategic planning, and the other focuses on operations. When used together, they can improve the environmental policies of academic institutions.  
[PERSON] and [PERSON] [51] reached similar conclusions. They estimated the carbon footprint of Spanish universities, taking into account energy consumption and the share of renewable energy. They demonstrated that a mere 17% conformed to environmental criteria. Similarly to the present study, the authors identified significant differences in CO\({}_{2}\) emissions depending on design practices. Both analyses prove that universities have the potential to limit carbon emissions through conscious and optimised management of digital infrastructure. This conclusion suggests the need for a more extensive deployment of sustainable development standards in the area.  
Similar differences in institutional engagement were identified by [PERSON] et al. [52], who investigated medical organisations in the USA. Their website content analysis revealed substantial differences regarding the presence of sustainable development content. Just as in the case of universities, not only do medical institutions' websites provide information, but they also make statements regarding the actual deployment of environmental policies. Both sectors have leaders whose good practices can be models for others. On the other hand, a study by [PERSON] and [PERSON] [53] on e-commerce indicated certain \"tensions\" between functionality and user experience versus environmental impact. Design decisions significantly influence CO\({}_{2}\) emissions in both online trade and the construction of public institution websites. The results indicate that, as long as they receive proper information, users are willing to sacrifice speed or extensive functions in the name of more environmentally friendly solutions, particularly when the carbon footprint is clearly communicated through emissions labelling, for example. [PERSON] [15] analysed the evolution of corporate digital responsibility (CDR) in Germany. The conclusion was that it is an important model for voluntary self-regulation of businesses facing digital transition. The study analysed DAX 30 company reports, revealing that, despite the implementation of the CDR-Code in 2021, the scope of communications and practical deployment of CDR principles remain below par. These results confirm that actual actions diverge from declared attitudes, which is also relevant to public universities and their outlook on digital responsibility. Considering this background, the present study offers an original contribution: a standardised measurement of the environmental impact of university websites. This approach integrates technological evaluation with institutional and operational perspectives, offering a solid foundation for future comparative analyses and development of digital policies consistent with climate goals.