The University of Michigan has achieved a Gold rating from the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) for its extensive sustainability initiatives. This rating, administered by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), highlights the university’s progress in sustainable practices across academics, operations, planning, and community engagement. With its comprehensive approach, the university stands out among global higher education institutions.
STARS is a globally recognized framework used by over 1,200 institutions in 52 countries to measure sustainability performance. The University of Michigan’s latest submission showcases achievements in renewable energy, infrastructure upgrades, sustainable food, waste reduction, research, and student engagement on the Ann Arbor campus, including Michigan Medicine.
President Domenico Grasso stated, “This recognition reflects the collaborative work happening across the university to advance sustainability through research, education and community engagement, campus operations and innovation.” The university’s commitment includes academic programs, student engagement, energy transition projects, and various infrastructure improvements.
The University of Michigan scored 179 out of 250 points in the latest STARS cycle under AASHE’s updated framework, maintaining its Gold status since 2015. The evaluation covers academic, operational, and leadership facets, requiring coordinated sustainability efforts across the university.
The Sustainability Leadership Council, established in 2025, coordinates sustainability strategies across the Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses, as well as Michigan Medicine. This council supports university-wide efforts, ensuring alignment and collaboration in sustainability initiatives.
Highlighted efforts include sustainability-focused academic programs, community partnerships, and operational strategies linked to long-term campus planning. Initiatives like the Maize Rays project, geoexchange deployment, and waste-reduction efforts are notable examples.
Programs enhancing sustainability culture include Planet Blue Ambassadors and Sustainable Workplace. Educational experiences at the Campus Farm and Farm Stand further engage the university community in sustainability practices.
U-M also collaborates with other institutions through AASHE to share sustainability strategies across academics and operations. Recently, several university initiatives received national acclaim through the 2026 AASHE Sustainability Awards, recognizing the Lab Swap Shop, Maize and Blue Cupboard, and Returnable Shelves programs for their innovative waste reduction and reuse efforts.
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