The conservation of nature depends to a large extent on the ecological role assumed by universities, aimed at responsible use of natural resources, being an essential element to protect life, assume responsibility and curb the ravages caused by globalization, excessive growth of capitalism and modern/instrumental rationality, which reifies life, without measuring the negative effects that this can generate on the future of the planet. The global ecological crisis is of old data, worsened from the 17th century with industrialization, advancing until reaching nerve points in the 20th century. It is accompanied by the permanence of the Western hegemonic logos, by a lack of knowledge of nature or, in other words, as a use of it as machinery for human interests. Faced with this reality, sustainable development arises, as a proposal that brings together economic, political and environmental perspectives, which balances human interests with the possibility of protecting and safeguarding nature, a perspective that universities cannot ignore, but have to appropriate to make this a transversal axis of education and social action, visible through the execution of research projects and community extension, which reflects a look that transcends the classrooms and connects the university with society, promoting as a promoter of social welfare. © 2023 The authors.