Universities are creators of local knowledge bases, powerhouses of local economies, promoters of sustainability research and flagships of youth sustainability education. Research in higher education institutions contributes to overcoming environmental, social and economic challenges by involving business and civil society actors and building partnerships. Universities are essential to promote a green mentality and raise awareness among young people, representing the future generation that can no longer ignore sustainable approaches in their decisions. The University of Pécs (UP, Hungary) is committed to sustainability efforts. As the greenest Hungarian university, UP is open to initiatives that could reduce its ecological footprint. The Green University Programme of UP is a catalyst for green innovations to achieve the goals: sustainable operation and management of the institution, environmentally-conscious staff and numerous green projects. This paper focuses primarily on three topics. The first examines questions related to the management of the infrastructure of the university, sustainable operation and management, energy and waste management. The second topic analyses the factors affecting youth environmental awareness through university education platforms and new educational methodologies. The third is closely linked to the first topic, addressing energy management issues and elements of the circular economy.