The Princeton Review evaluates colleges based on sustainability initiatives through surveys completed by both administrators and students. These surveys targeted more than 400 institutions, reviewing policies, practices, and programs related to sustainability. The guide also considers factors such as campus renewable energy sources, recycling, conservation, and the availability of academic offerings for students looking to participate in sustainability activities or to major in sustainability-related careers.  

Jennifer Chirico, associate vice president of Sustainability, emphasized Georgia Tech’s commitment to a sustainable future.   

“Georgia Tech remains committed to being an innovative leader in the Southeast. We have advanced the goals outlined in our first comprehensive Climate Action Plan, published last year, and are proud to operate our campus with expanded clean energy strategies, zero-emissions mobility options, and the continued growth of our award-winning EcoCommons.” 

 These notable advancements were factored into the decision to include Georgia Tech:  

• The Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design, the first Living Building Challenge-certified research and academic building in the Southeast.  

• 30 LEED-certified buildings on campus.  

• The award-winning EcoCommons, 80 acres of regeneratively designed greenspace.  

•  AASHE Stars GOLD rating.  

• Publication of the Institute’s Climate Action Plan.  

• A public Climate Story Map.  

• The Georgia Tech Arboretum certified as Arbnet Level II.  

• The Green Forks initiative, aimed at reducing food waste and supporting student food security.  

• New in-vessel composting machine installed for food waste diversion directly on campus. 

The Princeton Review highlights the important work of institutions across the country, recommending those included in the report to “students who want their ‘best-fit’ college to also be a green one.”