Central Wisconsin News

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has been ranked the highest among public institutions in the state for its sustainability achievements, according to an international accrediting body.

UW-Stevens Point earned a STARS Gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), a consortium of colleges and universities dedicated to fostering a sustainable future. The university achieved a score of 72.06, the highest among Universities of Wisconsin. The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) measures and promotes sustainability across various aspects of higher education.

This marks the fourth occasion UW-Stevens Point has received a gold rating, previously earning it in 2012, 2015, and 2018, with a silver rating in 2021. The university’s 2024 report is available at https://reports.aashe.org/institutions/university-of-wisconsin-stevens-point-wi/report/2024-03-22/.

“We are very proud to be recognized for our longstanding commitment to sustainability,” said Chancellor Thomas Gibson. “UW-Stevens Point consistently works towards reducing our carbon footprint as part of our ongoing mission. We are dedicated to exploring innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.”

The university was commended for its sustainability-focused curriculum and research, as well as student engagement through the Office of Sustainability and Student Government Association’s Green Fund and advocacy efforts. Additionally highlighted were the university’s waste management initiatives, procurement of 100 percent renewable electricity, and work on a Climate Action and Resiliency Plan.

Sergio Romero, a graduate research assistant in UWSP’s Office of Sustainability, emphasized the collaborative spirit that contributed to raising the university’s score: “Whether we are pursuing a new certification or just looking for input on our projects, we have multiple voices on campus and in the community that support sustainability and our Climate Action and Resiliency Plan process.”

With over 1,200 participants across 52 countries, AASHE’s STARS program is recognized globally as a comprehensive framework for publicly reporting information related to institutional sustainability performance. Participants report achievements in five main areas: academics; engagement; operations; planning and administration; and innovation and leadership.

“STARS was developed by the campus sustainability community to provide high standards for recognizing campus sustainability efforts,” said AASHE Executive Director Meghan Fay Zahniser. “UW-Stevens Point has demonstrated a substantial commitment to sustainability by achieving a STARS Gold Rating and is to be congratulated for their efforts.”

AASHE aims to empower higher education institutions to lead in sustainability transformation by providing resources, professional development opportunities, and networking support. More information about AASHE can be found at www.aashe.org. Details about the STARS program are available at stars.aashe.org.