What system does a university need to optimise its progress to sustainability? Discusses the gradation of approaches possible for a university as it strives to improve its environmental performance. Argues that an environmental policy plus mechanisms for its implementation can be adequate, and endorsement of a single formal EMS need not be necessary. Illustrates this with progress at Lincoln University, the smallest public university in New Zealand. Lincoln University introduced its environmental policy in 1992, but its full implementation was delayed due to pressures on the tertiary sector in New Zealand. However, a new policy has now been adopted and an environmental task force established. Also briefly addresses the following topics: why have an environmental policy?; the establishment and content of the Lincoln University environmental policy; putting the policy into practice--an example based on waste reduction; and a discussion of the main obstacles to progress, in the current university climate. (Contains 3 figures.)