Princeton Review names BGSU a 'green college'

Seventh year University has made the list

Bowling Green State University is among the nation's most environmentally responsible colleges, according to the 11th annual Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges, 2021 Edition which profiles 416 colleges chosen out of the 695 schools surveyed.

The guide, released Oct. 20 during Campus Sustainability Month, profiles each school's "use of renewable energy, its recycling and conservation programs, the availability of environmental studies in academic offerings, and career guidance for green jobs." This is the seventh year that BGSU has made the list.

"This is an honor," said Nick Hennessy, BGSU sustainability manager. "We are particularly proud of this year, given the collaborative effort campuswide that this application represents.”

The Princeton Review chose the 416 colleges based on its survey of administrators at 695 colleges concerning their institutions' sustainability-related policies, practices and programs. "Green Rating" scores were tallied using data from the survey.

Schools with Green Rating scores of 80 or higher (out of 99) made it into the guide. BGSU's score was 98.

The ranking provides a good reference for prospective students who show a growing interest in attending colleges committed to the environment. Rob Franek, editor in chief of The Princeton Review, said they have seen a high level of interest among college applicants and their parents in colleges with green practices, programs and offerings.

"This ranking is not just about operating sustainably, it is also about offering a curriculum, student involvement opportunities and research connected to sustainability," said Hennessy. "It is very all-encompassing."

Academic areas across BGSU offer courses about the environment and sustainability, from the School of Earth, Environment and Society to programs including construction management, biology, architecture and environmental design, and interior design, among others.

More information on the University’s progress toward its sustainability goals and its Climate Action Plan is available on the Office of Campus Sustainability website.