The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education gives Pitt a STARS Silver rating

The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education has recognized Pitt’s sustainability accomplishments with a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) Silver rating.

STARS measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education. Pitt’s rating was based on its achievements in five overall areas: academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration and innovation and leadership.

Among Pitt’s many sustainability initiatives, AASHE reviewers noted the University-wide commitment to sustainable landscape design, the University of Thriftsburgh campus thrift store that encourages reuse and sustainable dining practices.

“We are proud to have achieved STARS Silver in our first-ever AASHE rating,” said Richard Heller, senior manager of electrical utilities and energy initiatives in Pitt’s Facilities Management Division, who coordinated the development of the University’s new sustainability plan. The plan’s measurable goals include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, water usage and landfill waste and increasing the percentage of renewable energy used on campus.

“The Pitt Sustainability Plan provides a framework for expanding on our longstanding commitment to sustainability. I look forward to seeing how the ongoing implementation of the plan improves our future STARS performance,” he said.