May 01, 2025
Campus collaboration sought for STARS sustainability initiative
SIU’s Office of Sustainability is collecting data campuswide in an effort to once again receive the coveted STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System) program rating, administered by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).
SIU last submitted a STARS report in January 2020 and earned a silver ranking, a three-year designation for the third consecutive time. Aimee Lemrise, SIU’s sustainability director, and her office, are working diligently to prepare a new report that reflects the university’s current sustainability efforts and achievements with the ultimate goal of “going for gold.” The STARS ranking system takes into account sustainability efforts in four comprehensive areas: academics, engagement, operations, and planning and administration.
Creating the comprehensive report requires collaboration among multiple departments across campus since a wide range of data and information is required, Lemrise said.
“We appreciate your support and cooperation as we reach out for the contributions that will help shape the future of sustainability at SIU,” she said. “Together, we can move toward a more sustainable and resilient campus.”
Lemrise said the information gathered will not only spotlight SIU’s ongoing efforts and accomplishments, but it will also help attract sustainability-minded students, faculty and partners while emphasizing SIU’s commitment to building a greener future, as it is indeed one of the university’s strategic plan pillars. National and international organizations, including the Princeton Review and UI GreenMetric, consider the STARS ranking when creating their guides.
To provide information to assist with the report, contact the Office of Sustainability at sustainability@siu.edu.