The University has received word that its initiatives and research in sustainability have earned a STARS Silver Rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).
With more than 650 participants on six continents, AASHE’s STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) program is the most widely recognized framework in the world for reporting information related to a college or university’s sustainability performance.
The University’s STARS report is publicly available at https://stars.aashe.org/institutions/university-of-rochester-ny/report/2016-01-06/.
“The University has found great value in the AASHE STARS rating system,” said Patricia Beaumont, director of support operations in University Facilities and Services. “The program assists us in identifying our areas of strength and opportunity.”
“The Campus Engagement category—providing students and staff with sustainability learning experiences outside the formal curriculum—was our highest rated area where we received 100 percent of the points available, ” Beaumont explained. “The Medical Center’s program supporting global health using big data was recognized by STARS as a best practice. The Sustainability Council is using the results of the STARS survey to identify priority areas for improvement in academics and operations as part of a year-long sustainability planning process.”
The University Council on Sustainability—composed of faculty, staff, and student representatives—helps guide the University’s progress in environmental programs in operational and academic areas. The council evaluates and recommends new sustainability initiatives that are both feasible and create an important impact, in areas including energy conservation, water stewardship, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, sustainable food preparation, and waste diversion. The work of the council extends to all areas of the University—academic, research, patient care and health programs, campus operations, transportation and facilities, and engagement with the Rochester community.
