Ecologue

Oregon State continues to lead in sustainability efforts among universities after receiving their sixth Gold star designation. STARS, otherwise known as the Sustainability, Tracking, Assessment and Rating System uses the four categories academics, engagement, operations, planning and administration as well as one additional innovation category to gauge campus sustainability. Gold is the second highest rating that a university can receive.

This designation comes from the work Oregon State has done in research, campus engagement, campus grounds and diversity and affordability. OSU also received glowing remarks from STARS administrators about the two innovation credits the university submitted.  One covers its commitment to improving student food access and food security by accepting federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, on campus.  The second innovation submission discusses the success of OSU’s full transition to reusable food to-go containers rather than disposables.  More info about these and other highlights are in OSU’s FY16 Annual Sustainability Report. OSU President, Edward J. Ray, wrote to STARS, “Measuring and transparently communicating our contributions toward a more equitable, healthy and prosperous future is more critical now than ever.” Oregon State will continue to innovate and engage while keeping its commitment to sustainability a priority.