Sustainability

A living laboratory for a greener world

USC’s faculty is pursuing earth-changing research. We are preparing the next generation of innovators to drive the green and blue economy of the future. And we’re lowering USC’s own carbon footprint by transforming our campus in pursuit of net zero emissions.

Creating a greener future

Number of sustainability courses:

1,196

Carbon neutral by

2025

Zero waste by

2028

USC is playing a leading role in solving the global climate crisis

Projects you can support

  • President’s Sustainability Strategic Fund

    July 27, 2022The global climate crisis is our call to action. With the support of President Carol L. Folt, USC is creating an urban forest, tapping the potential of our oceans, preparing the next generation of environmental innovators, and lowering our own carbon footprint.Support this project
  • Student organizers speak at a climate strike on USC’s campus, part of a growing focus on sustainability issues at USC. (Photo/Jessica Doherty, Annenberg Media)

    Sustainability Engagement Fund

    July 27, 2022The push for a green USC has never been stronger. We are making meaningful strides to expand sustainable operations on our campuses with the help of students, faculty, and staff.Support this project

  • Arts and Climate Collective

    July 27, 2022Storytelling, arts, and culture fuel this program that aims to create an ambitious sustainability and environmental justice agenda. Powered by students, the collective supports their work with funding, guidance, communication, and community.Support this project

  • Urban Trees Initiative

    July 27, 2022A forest in Los Angeles? That’s the mission of the USC Urban Trees Initiative, which partners USC experts and students with the City of Los Angeles to grow shade trees in neighborhoods where they are most needed.Support this project
  • Galen Center solar panel installation

    On-Campus Solar

    July 27, 2022Our goal: net-zero emissions by 2025. Solar installation projects currently include the Cardinal & Gold apartment building, the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island, and the Galen Center, where the panels provide up to 15% of the arena’s energy use.Support this project
  • Catalina Island

    USC Wrigley Institute for Environment and Sustainability (WIES)

    July 26, 2022Wrigley Institute is leading the way in illuminating the state of our planet, solving its most pressing problems, and transforming the way society thinks and acts on the environment.Support this project

“Thank you for your interest in supporting sustainability at USC. I’d be happy to tell you more about the options available. Feel free to email me at wes.patterson@usc.edu.”

Wes Patterson
Associate Vice President, Strategic Initiatives
University Advancement

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