Question 1

Who is the STARS Reporter designation certification best suited for?

Accepted Answer

This designation is best suited for colleges, universities, and higher education institutions that are beginning their sustainability journey or have limited capacity for a full scored STARS submission. It is ideal for sustainability coordinators and campus administrators who want to publicly document and share sustainability data without the pressure of earning a formal rating.

Question 2

How much does the STARS Reporter designation cost?

Accepted Answer

The initial cost for the STARS Reporter designation is $0 USD.

Question 3

What are the renewal requirements for the STARS Reporter designation?

Accepted Answer

The STARS Reporter designation can be renewed by submitting an updated unscored report through the STARS Reporting Tool, which may be done as often as once per year. No subscription fee is required for renewal of the Reporter designation. Institutions are encouraged to update their reports annually to reflect current sustainability data and progress.

Question 4

What continuing education is required for the STARS Reporter designation?

Accepted Answer

No continuing professional education or CEU requirements are associated with the STARS Reporter designation.

Question 5

What evidence is required for the STARS Reporter designation?

Accepted Answer

Institutions must complete and submit an unscored report through the STARS Reporting Tool, documenting sustainability data across applicable credit categories including Academics, Engagement, Operations, Planning & Administration, and Innovation & Leadership. No executive cover letter or AASHE subscription is required. Reports may be submitted as often as once per year to update institutional data.

Question 6

Who should NOT pursue the STARS Reporter designation?

Accepted Answer

Institutions seeking a formal, scored sustainability rating (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum) should pursue a full STARS subscription instead. Organizations outside of higher education will find this program inapplicable, as it is designed exclusively for colleges and universities.

Question 7

What are alternatives to the STARS Reporter designation?

Accepted Answer

Alternative certifications include: STARS Bronze/Silver/Gold/Platinum Rating, Princeton Review Green Rating, Sierra Club Cool Schools Ranking, Sustainability Tracking and Rating System (STARS) Scored Report, QS World University Rankings — Sustainability.

STARS Reporter designation

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