University of Michigan Secures Gold for Sustainability Initiatives
The University of Michigan (U-M) has achieved a prestigious Gold rating in the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS), underscoring its extensive sustainability efforts across academics, operations, planning, and community engagement. This accolade reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a sustainable environment.
STARS, managed by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), is among the most recognized frameworks globally for assessing sustainability performance in higher education. With over 1,200 institutions from 52 countries participating, U-M’s achievement stands as a testament to its dedication to sustainability.
The latest submission from U-M details sustainability initiatives on the Ann Arbor campus, including Michigan Medicine. Highlights include advancements in renewable energy, modernizing infrastructure, promoting sustainable food, waste reduction, research, and student involvement.
President Domenico Grasso remarked, “This recognition reflects the collaborative work happening across the university to advance sustainability through research, education and community engagement, campus operations and innovation.” His statement emphasizes the university’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, both locally and beyond.
During the recent STARS evaluation, U-M scored 179 out of 250 points under AASHE’s updated criteria. This marks a continued tradition of excellence, following Gold ratings secured in 2015, 2018, and 2022. U-M’s first participation in STARS was in 2012, and it has consistently maintained high standards since.
STARS evaluates performance across various domains, including academics, operations, and leadership, requiring universities to show coordinated sustainability progress. U-M’s efforts are supported by collaboration between its campuses, schools, colleges, and units, alongside the Sustainability Leadership Council, established in 2025 to synchronize strategies across all campuses and Michigan Medicine.
According to Drew Horning, interim director of the Graham Sustainability Institute, “We’ve seen a growing culture of sustainability across the university over time, from academics and research to operations and student engagement.” He further lauded the STARS framework for capturing the collaborative efforts at U-M.
U-M’s submission featured academic and research programs focused on sustainability, community partnerships, and student engagement initiatives. Efforts such as the Maize Rays initiative, geoexchange deployment, and waste-reduction programs were highlighted for their impact.
Additionally, programs like Planet Blue Ambassadors and Sustainable Workplace aim to enhance sustainability awareness and participation across the university. Campus operations are increasingly leveraged as a learning environment, connecting students and faculty to hands-on sustainability projects.
Beyond STARS, U-M collaborates with other institutions and networks via AASHE to exchange sustainability strategies and practices. Recent accolades from the 2026 AASHE Sustainability Awards recognized U-M initiatives like the Lab Swap Shop and Maize and Blue Cupboard for outstanding contributions to waste reduction and student support.
