CCC Earns Gold for Sustainability Achievements

Central Community College has earned a STARS Gold rating in recognition of its sustainability achievements from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). STARS, the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System measures and encourages sustainability in all aspects of higher education.

“After earning a bronze rating in 2017 and a silver rating in 2020, I am thrilled our continuous improvement efforts have earned CCC a gold rating in 2023,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. This STARS Gold rating ranks Central Community College in the top 5 associate colleges for sustainability achievements in the United States.” 

According to Ben Newton, CCC environmental sustainability director, the school’s goals include carbon neutrality by 2034 and making strides toward greater resource conservation and sustainability each year. A major ongoing initiative from this report includes an overall reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent since 2014. CCC was recognized as being a leader in the state through hosting the sustainability pavilion at the Nebraska State Fair, increased composting efforts, being selected for a World Wildlife Fund Climate Week spotlight and two former sustainability interns being named Guinness World Records holder. CCC faculty and staff continue to expand educational activities through eBadges, energy technology workforce development, sustainability clubs and newsletters. 

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