Boston College’s sustainability practices continue to receive national and professional recognition, as the University has been awarded a Silver rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education through its STARS —Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System—program.
STARS lauded the Lynch School of Education and Human Development’s initiative in teaching Massachusetts urban public school students about the science and enterprise of hydroponic gardening, calling the program a “unique effort to engage area youth in hydroponics and social justice.”
In a letter accompanying BC’s submission to STARS, Vice President for Planning and Assessment Kelli Armstrong pointed to the University’s commitment to designing and constructing sustainable buildings and innovative energy and water conservation methods while minimizing waste and emissions. She added that BC students have been active in conservation and sustainability efforts, as evidenced by the 11 sustainability-oriented clubs officially recognized by the University, and students’ top placement in the 2018 Recyclemania competition. Armstrong also noted the University’s launch of the Global Observatory on Pollution and Health, which will track efforts to control pollution and prevent pollution-related diseases that account for an estimated nine million deaths worldwide each year.
“Boston College recognizes there are limits to the world’s resources,” wrote Armstrong, “and as such, seeks to follow our motto of ‘Ever to Excel’ in environmental stewardship and sustainability.”
Established in 2005, AASHE is the leading association for the advancement of sustainability in higher education, serving a full range of higher education faculty, administrators, staff, and students “who are change agents and drivers of sustainability innovation.”
University Communications | May 2019
