This paper explores how student participation in virtual exchange (VE) projects focused on sustainable development can contribute to integrating sustainability into pedagogical practices in higher education. The research involved 105 students from Ukrainian, Polish, and American universities, representing various academic specializations. Emphasis is placed on examining key concepts related to sustainable development and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study is grounded in observational data and interviews conducted during English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses where VE projects were implemented. The findings reveal that VE collaboration fosters student awareness of sustainability and promotes interdisciplinary dialogue across cultural and academic contexts. Through group activities, students not only developed communication skills but also deepened their understanding of the global and local dimensions of sustainability. Most participants reported a positive experience, noting that VE projects made complex sustainability concepts more accessible and relevant to their future professional paths. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives was found to be closely linked to students’ motivation, willingness to engage in intercultural teamwork, and prior awareness of socio-environmental challenges. The study concludes that VE projects can be a valuable tool in integrating sustainability into higher education, provided that supportive conditions for engagement are ensured.