The university has received a STARS Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Elon has earned a STARS Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education in recognition of the university’s sustainability achievements.
Sustainability Tracking Assessment and Rating System (STARS) ratings allow for a standard comparison of sustainability efforts among the 732 colleges and universities using the reporting tool.
Though the newest version of STARS is stricter than the previous version, Elon has maintained its silver rating since early 2014, when AASHE last recognized the university for its efforts.
The three facets of sustainability – social, economic and environmental – are assessed in STARS through the following categories: academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration, and innovation.
Such a comprehensive report helps demonstrate that working toward sustainability goals is a campus-wide effort. Because each category is divided into subcategories and credits with each credit being scored, the report is also a useful tool in identifying areas of improvement to guide future sustainability initiatives.
To learn about all the programs and practices that earned Elon points, view Elon’s STARS Report.
Data for the report are collected and organized by a STARS Committee consisting of faculty and staff and chaired by Elaine Durr, Elon’s director of sustainability. The report contains information gathered from stakeholders across campus.
“I am grateful to all of the individuals who provided the necessary data to complete Elon’s STARS Report,” Durr said. “It would not have been possible without their participation.”
STARS differs from other rankings in that criteria to determine a STARS rating are transparent and accessible to anyone. Stakeholders also are involved in the development process.
Criteria for scoring the most recent report can be found in the STARS 2.0 Technical Manual.