University of Arkansas Continues Commitment to Sustainability

Photo Submitted

The University of Arkansas has renewed its membership in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education to support campus efforts toward building a healthy and just world. AASHE is an association of colleges and universities that are working to create a sustainable future.

To further its mission of empowering higher education to lead the sustainability transformation, the assocation provides resources, professional development, and a network of support to enable institutions of higher education to model sustainability in all areas, from governance and operations to education and research. Through membership in the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, the University of Arkansas will focus in advancing its sustainability initiatives throughout the institution and in the community.

“AASHE provides administrators, faculty, operations staff, students, and other campus stakeholders with the tools, information, and guidance they need to lead the sustainability transformation,” said Carlos Ochoa, director of the office for sustainability. AASHE enables higher education institutions to meet their sustainability goals by providing specialized resources, professional development, and a network of peer support. Membership covers every individual at an institution, so the entire campus community can take advantage of member benefits.

“We are delighted to have the University of Arkansas on board and participating in the campus sustainability community,” said Paul Rowland, executive director of Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education. “This shows a real commitment to playing a leadership role in some of the biggest challenges of our time, and provides the campus community with access to thousands of examples of best practices in campus sustainability.”

The association hosts the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System, a comprehensive campus sustainability rating system that enables institutions to measure their progress and learn from others. With the rating system as a roadmap, institutions can select meaningful and appropriate pathways to sustainability while conserving valuable resources, combating global warming, and building healthier communities. The association also offers extensive online resources and discussion forums for professional development and sharing knowledge.

The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education is one of two supporting organizations for the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment. Over 700 presidents and chancellors from various colleges and universities have committed to lead their institutions to climate neutrality as soon as possible.

The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education defines sustainability in an inclusive way, encompassing human and ecological health, social justice, secure livelihoods, and a better world for all generations. The association is a member-driven, independent non-profit organization.