Talking to someone about STARS? Use the following talking points:
- The full title of the framework: “Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System. (Full name and STARS acronym should be included in the first mention, and only “STARS” in subsequent mentions.)
- STARS is a program of AASHE, The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
- STARS is a comprehensive sustainability rating system for colleges and universities that addresses environmental, social and economic sustainability.
- STARS was developed by the higher education community through a transparent and inclusive process.
- An institution’s STARS score is based on the percentage of applicable points earned in credits across four main categories: Academics, Engagement, Operations, and Planning & Administration.
- STARS ratings are earned based on the total overall score. Ratings are not awarded for the score achieved in an individual category.
- STARS is a self-assessment that allows institutions to earn ratings. Language implying that AASHE gives, assigns, certifies, or grants STARS ratings should be avoided.
- STARS incorporates data accuracy processes that improve report quality, protect the credibility of the program and provide a fair and transparent means for resolving questions about the accuracy of reported data.
- STARS version 2.2 is the latest version of STARS. Please see the STARS Technical Manual for a more in-depth overview of the credits included in STARS and how they are scored.
- STARS is designed to:
- 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 improvement toward sustainability.
- Facilitate information sharing about higher education sustainability practices and performance.
- Build a stronger, more diverse campus sustainability community.