STARS Sustainability Rating
What is STARS?
Georgia Tech uses the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) as a transparent, self-reporting framework to measure sustainability performance.
STARS is designed to:
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- Provide a framework for understanding sustainability in all sectors of higher education.
- Enable meaningful comparisons over time and across institutions using a common set of measurements.
- Create incentives for continual sustainability improvement.
- Facilitate information sharing about higher education sustainability practices and performance.
- Build a stronger, more diverse campus sustainability community.
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Georgia Tech has earned a STARS Gold rating in the most recent submission (March 2024).
Our Climate Action Plan is closely aligned with the STARS criteria, which will help Georgia Tech achieve more points in future submissions.
Get Involved
The Georgia Tech Office of Sustainability goes through a yearly process of collecting data to submit to the AASHE STARS framework for the next reporting cycle. Learn about the data-collection process here.
Planning & Administration
Examines how a college or university integrates sustainability into its core strategies. Components include a comprehensive sustainability plan, clear institutional commitments and policies, and structures for governance that ensure sustainability is considered in decision-making.
Innovation & Leadership
Awards credits for initiatives that push boundaries, such as developing new green building technologies, creating centers for social justice and sustainability, or implementing unique programs to achieve carbon neutrality.
Operations
Assesses sustainability efforts in its buildings, grounds, and transportation. This includes eco-friendly construction, water conservation, energy efficiency, and programs to minimize waste and promote greener commutes.
Academics & Research
This impact area seeks to recognize institutions that offer academic courses, formal education programs, and applied learning experiences that address sustainability.
Engagement
Assesses how a college or university fosters sustainability awareness and action within its community and beyond. This can involve public outreach and education programs, student engagement in sustainability initiatives, and partnerships with local communities to address shared challenges.