Sustainability
Momentum is building behind USC’s drive to go green. As part of the push, the university reduced its greenhouse gas emissions. It also was designated a campus green zone, recognizing its switch away from landscaping and maintenance equipment powered by fossil fuels. The achievements capped off a spring semester in which faculty members contributed substantially to knowledge and policy on climate change — and students continued their advocacy on behalf of the planet. See a few success stories below.
Study involving USC and federal government shows L.A. could be completely powered by renewable energy in 25 years
The effort could achieve dramatic reductions in greenhouse gases without significant disruption to the economy or people’s lifestyles, according to USC research.
Opening of Ginsburg Center, first Platinum-certified LEED building
Groundbreaking ceremony kicks off construction of a significant milestone in USC’s history: a new home for computer science, focused on improving and benefiting society.
Athletics commits to UN Sports for Climate Action initiative
USC Athletics will join the U.N. Sports for Climate Action initiative, pacing the university’s rapidly expanding sustainability efforts.
USC meets goals for greenhouse gas reductions
The achievement is the first time the university has set — and met — a target for carbon-based emissions.
Urban trees to fight warming and improve quality of life in L.A.
University scientists, working with the city of Los Angeles, have developed a plan to grow an urban forest in communities vulnerable to heat waves and air pollution.
First group of 12 students get Arts in Action grants for projects that use arts to advocate for climate action
The first round of 12 Trojan grant winners will pursue storytelling projects on sustainability and environmental justice through the Arts and Climate Collective.
USC launches first campus green zone in U.S.
Complaints sparked a change from noisy landscaping equipment to clean technologies on the University Park Campus, part of a major investment that’s earned the university green accolades.
Ellen Dux of USC Sustainability looks forward to the next 10 years of green upgrades at USC
To commemorate Earth Day 2021, Ellen Dux of the USC Office of Sustainability envisions the next 10 years of green upgrades, including the ones Trojans want to see most.