The Center of Excellence in Sustainability (CoES), a pioneer Center in Greece, was established in 2011 with the aim of promoting sustainability on the ACG campus and beyond. ACG is the only academic institution in Greece to have received a STARS Gold Rating by the internationally acclaimed US AASHE [Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education] in recognition of its best practices in five categories: Academics, Engagement, Operations, Planning & Administration and Innovation & Leadership. The Center of Excellence in Sustainability works within the academic, civic and private sectors to:
- Promote environmental awareness, education for sustainable development and sustainability research on campus and beyond;
- Coordinate educational programs and activities while promoting experiential learning;
- Facilitate faculty and student collaboration between disciplines;
- Connect with other stakeholders and actors in the wider community in collaboration and coordination with the Office of Public Affairs.
The Academic Advisory Board of the CoES provides academic guidance and support enhancing the focus of academic programs in sustainability and related fields as well as promoting sustainability both on and off campus. The Board also serves as a liaison between the ACG faculty and the Office of Public Affairs, which leads all sustainability at ACG initiatives.