Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability

Carnegie Elective Classification for SustainabilityÌý

С»ÆÊé Boulder serves as the host institution for the Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability. The Elective Classification for Sustainability is an innovative initiative designed to recognize and celebrate higher education institutions that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and climate action as integral to their academic missions. This classification provides a rigorous framework for assessing and advancing sustainability efforts in curriculum, research, operations, and community engagement.

Why the classification matters

Higher education institutions play a critical role in addressing global challenges, including climate change and resource sustainability. The Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability highlights and supports institutional efforts to lead in these areas by fostering innovation, collaboration, and measurable progress toward a more sustainable future. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education (ACE) developed this classification to support thriving, sustainable communities for current and future generations. These efforts are culturally, regionally, and contextually informed.

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The Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability aims to:

  • Recognize excellence: Highlight institutions that integrate sustainability into their core academic missions and campus practices
  • Encourage innovation: Foster creative solutions to sustainability challenges through research, teaching, and community engagement
  • Promote access: Ensure accessibility for all institutions, including those with fewer resources, by offering adaptable criteria and support
  • Foster collaboration: Build on existing frameworks, such as AASHE’s Sustainability Tracking, Assessment, and Rating System, to align efforts and maximize impact.

For more information, sign up via the link below or email us at CarnegieSustain@colorado.edu with questions.

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To Apply

Applications for the Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability will open on March 9, 2026. To receive announcements about the application, webinars, guidance documents, and other resources, be sure to subscribe to our emails.Ìý

Upcoming Events

Will you be at in Chicago March 8-10? Stop by our table to learn more about the Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability and be sure to attend the panel Monday, March 9, "New Institutional Recognition for Sustainability: The Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability" from 1:15 PM – 2:15 PM. Hope to see you there!

News and Announcements

A cohort of 20 diverse institutions representing minority serving institutions, community colleges, research universities, and liberal arts colleges is participated in a yearlong pilot program in 2025. The pilot program concluded in January 2026, and informed revisions to the Sustainability Elective application framework. For more information on the pilot program and process for the Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability, .Ìý