The Princeton Review has ranked Towson University among the top institutions nationwide for sustainability policies, practices and programs. The publication’s Guide to Green Colleges: 2026 Edition highlights TU as the top institution in Maryland and among the top 50 nationwide.

“We are proud to continue Towson University’s legacy of sustainability and environmental stewardship,” says Patricia Watson, director of sustainability. “This recognition reinforces the impact of our sustainability programs in supporting our environment, responding to the needs of students and educating our campus community on how to be responsible citizens.”

This recognition reinforces the impact of our sustainability programs in supporting our environment, responding to the needs of students and educating our campus community on how to be responsible citizens

Patricia Watson

Since signing the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment in 2007, TU has made continuous progress toward climate neutrality and environmental stewardship. The university has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 60% since 2008, achieved a recycling rate of 43.9% and now purchases 100% renewable electricity. Institution-wide sustainability programs ranging from energy-efficient construction to composting have contributed to the reduction in emissions and garnered national recognition for campus sustainability. TU was awarded a gold rating from the Association  for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education in 2025 and has been recognized in The Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges more than 10 times.

To create the 2026 guide, the publication analyzed the sustainability policies, practices and programs of more than 400 institutions nationwide. Colleges and universities were assigned green ratings from 60 to 99 based on 25 data points. Schools with a rating of 80 or higher were included in the guide. Towson University achieved a rating of 96.

Among the hundreds of schools we surveyed for this project, Towson University, which offers excellent academics, is also a standout for its record of environmentally responsible practices.

Rob Franek

“Among the hundreds of schools we surveyed for this project, Towson University, which offers excellent academics, is also a standout for its record of environmentally responsible practices. We are delighted to recommend it to college applicants who want their ‘best-fit’ college to also be a 'green' one," says Rob Franek, The Princeton Review's editor-in-chief.

Towson University offers a range of student-focused sustainability programs including an urban farm and food recovery network, a campus green map, alternative transportation options and a student eco reps program . Students can also explore sustainability through academic programs in environmental science and studies, geography and environmental planning, environmental sustainability and climate, weather and society.

TU is currently creating the institution’s inaugural sustainability and climate action plan, which will be included in the campus master plan. Students, faculty and staff are invited to learn more and provide input on the plan at an Oct. 28 virtual town hall.