Sustainability is a core university value and a dynamic force on campus. Furman has set ambitious goals for achieving various sustainability objectives. We continually track and monitor our progress around many sustainability metrics.
Resources & Reports
Sustainable Furman
Sustainable Furman outlines a long-range, comprehensive approach to making the university more sustainable in its practices, policies, and learning environments. The plan is organized around eight goals that address key aspects of Furman’s mission and operations, including the curriculum, co-curriculum, facilities management, and community relations.
Furman's STARS Report
The Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System™ (STARS) is a transparent, self-reporting framework for colleges and universities to measure their sustainability performance. Furman has had a GOLD STARS rating since 2015 and is the highest rated baccalaureate institution in the southern United States.
Climate Action
Furman was a charter signatory of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment in 2007. This pledge provides a framework and support for higher education institutions to eliminate greenhouse gases on campuses throughout the United States.
In 2009, Furman set a goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2026 (our Bicentennial year). Recognizing that we are unlikely to meet this target, we are updating our climate action plan in the summer of 2023. With continued institutional commitment, broad campus collaboration, and expert professional consulting, we will reassess strategies to lay out a new, ambitious, and achievable path to carbon neutrality.