University of South

Florida

The Go Green
Movement

Presented by The Go Green Team: Mallory Dupuis, Bradley Fischer, Samantha

Bandini, Chloe Daubenspeck, Cassandra Clermont, Dr. F. Tobienne Jr.
University of South Florida St. Petersburg
140 7th Avenue South,
Saint Petersburg, FL

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

WHY IT IS A GOOD THING

THAT COLLEGES GO GREEN
AND WHAT IS THE
OUTCOME?

USF OFFICE OF GLOBAL

SUSTAINABILITY

USF GO GREEN TIMELINE

WHAT IS ACUPCC? HOW IS

USF AFFILIATED?

HOW TO BECOME LEED

CERTIFIED

2014 DESIGNATED TREE

CAMPUS AREA

10

USFSP GOES GREEN

11

INTERVIEWS

12

DUKE ENERGY GRANTS 1

MILLION TO USFSP SOLAR
RESEARCH

17

USF SARASOTA- MANATEE

JOINS USFS GO GREEN
MOVEMENT

17

JOIN THE MOVEMENT- GET

INVOLVED IN GOING GREEN
WITH USF!

18

CONCLUSION

19

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

20

ANNOTATED
BIBLIOGRAPHY

21

WORKS CITED

24

Introduction
Climate change is something that impacts each and everyone one of us. Being
environmentally conscious and creating an environment sustainable for future generations
remains a top priority amongst policymakers. Not only are environmentalists and policymakers
implementing changes on a mass scale but universities across the United States are becoming
more environmentally involved. The University of South Florida was ranked in the Princeton
Review Guide of 286 colleges as one of the top universities in the nation for its commitment to
sustainability. USF President Judy Genshaft has been the leader in creating eco-friendly
alternatives in order to reduce USFs carbon footprint. Along with university sustainability
initiatives, USF has also carried over its going green movement into the Tampa Bay Area.
Advocating for public transportation, more bike lanes and recycling programs have increased
public awareness about going green. Not only has USF Tampa been recognized for its
innovative ways of creating a sustainable environment but its satellite campuses throughout
the region have also joined the cause. USFSP has partnered with Duke Energy in creating a
zero-net parking garage by installing solar panels atop its garage in order to reduce energy
costs. USFs entire student body, faculty and staff have embraced climate change by becoming
increasingly environmentally conscious. In this proposal, we will take an in-depth look as to
how our climate change initiatives will not only be recognized in our community, but on a
global scale.
Environmental sustainability is the ability to maintain natural existing resources that
are valued in the physical environment. The simple principle sustainability revolves around is
everything that we need in order to survive. Overexploitation of resources such as oil, natural
gas, coal, fish and water have all created negative externalities that if continued at an
accelerated rate will ultimately jeopardize our future generations natural environment. In
order to conserve our resources, sustainability practices will ensure that we will continue to
have the water, materials and resources in order to protect our environment for future
generations. The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has serious concerns about whether
our social and economic consequences are having a direct impact on population growth and
resource depletion. Advancements in research and scientific development is what the EPA
hopes to focus on in order to protect the natural environment and promote a going green
movement. USF similarly views these concerns made by the EPA and has allocated resources
in order to make the university more eco-friendly to its surrounding environment.
We are proud to announce that all of the University of South Floridas campuses are
taking a step in the right direction and is going to be a part of that positive change. We as the
USF community have taken on the challenge to go green.
So what does it mean to go green? Going green means making our campus
environmentally friendly in a way that isnt too costly. This will not only benefit the world we
live in today but help benefit the future generations as well. The University of South Florida

itself is one of the nations top green colleges, and USFSP has followed in its footsteps.
USFSP has the Green Energy Fund, a LEED Gold Certification for some of its buildings,
environmentally friendly computing, and other go green ideas initiated by the students. As
USF progresses towards going green, it strives to create an eco-friendly environment
throughout the entire campus and even into the surrounding community. USF's main method
of initiating the "GoGreen" project is through the three Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle. With the
help of student organizations such as the Center of Student Involvement and Emerging
GreenBuilders, students on campus participate in activities pertaining to the three Rs. Some of
these activities include the RecycleMania, a waste minimization contest, which the university
ranked second in the state. When it comes to reducing waste and reusing natural resources,
USF aims to create awareness. Some examples include encouraging students to invest in a
travel cup or mug, multiple refillable water bottle stations as well as USF dining being
styrofoam-free.

Executive Summary
The University of South Florida is not only an institution dedicated to creating
successful, contributing members to society through the education opportunities they offer,
but they are also committed to the long-lasting changes of the green movement. The
community driven initiatives of USF will be presented to show the exemplary efforts that USF
puts forth in research, education, and awareness in its sustainability objectives.
The vitality of USF and their commitment to the green movement will be presented
through a multitude of informational resources - from university research, interviews and press
releases to news outlets, charts, and tables. The report will show the history and evolution of
USF as a legitimate participant and innovative contributor to the green movement in both the
community and the collegiate setting.
The green initiatives of USF include LEED certified building, solar energy research,
community outreach programs from all of its campuses, as well as through the Patel Institute
of Global Sustainability. As the University of South Florida continues to devote itself to the
cause of sustainability, it is the hope that this report will generate further discourse that will
complement and expand the goals of USFSP to resolve the environmental burden that plagues
our society today.

Why it is a Good Thing that Colleges Go Green and What Is the Outcome?
The campaign to Go Green among college campuses has never been more paramount
than today. In light of changing public policy regarding climate change, colleges and
universities have the opportunity produce a leading effort in supporting sustainability. In 1992,
the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development agreed upon Agenda 21, an
action plan that emphasizes that human population, consumption, and technology are the
primary driving forces of environmental change. This document outlined steps to reduce
wasteful and inefficient consumption patterns in some parts of the world while encouraging
increased but sustainable development in others. Agenda 21 also states that "education is
critical for promoting sustainable development and improving the capacity of all people to
address environment and development issues". This is important because it created initiative
within higher education settings to become involved. As stated by Universities educate most
of the people who develop and manage society's institutions. For this reason, universities bear
profound responsibilities to increase the awareness, knowledge, Organizations like the
Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) share
sentiment and stress not only the obvious ecological benefits of colleges going green, but
research actually shows that universities participating in becoming more sustainable are
actually saving a lot of money and resources. In 2010, there were eighty four campuses that
had new solar energy installed, Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education reported
that from twenty nine of those eighty four campuses, a total of 50 million dollars would be
saved over the course of 10 years. An actual example of the benefits of colleges going green
can be found through USFs two solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at the MSC generate a total of
24.5 kW of clean renewable energy that is fed into the USF grid to help the university reach its
renewable energy goals and is estimated to save over 34,066 kWh a year (equivalent of $3,750
annually).

USF Office of Global Sustainability

The USF Patel College of Global Sustainability at the USF Tampa campus, which opened in
2010, uses a holistic academic curriculum focused on sustainability, research, scholarship, and
teaching. The first building at USF to be LEED certified, the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Global
Sustainability, offers Master degrees in Global Sustainability, research and scholarship
opportunities and devotes itself to the initiatives created by both the Office of Sustainability
and the Student Green Energy Fund. The forefront in all things sustainability-related, the USF
Office of Global Sustainability works in cooperation with numerous affiliations such as:

African Development Bank/African Water Facility (AWF) on the issues of Urban Water
Security.

International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Florida Urban Forestry Council tree
maintenance, urban forest inventory and management and their impact on the
benefits and services provided by trees and the urban forest.

Florida Climate Institute (FCI) to help Florida businesses adapt to the consequences of
climate change.

The Patel School of Global Sustainability is also gaining legitimacy as an institution dedicated
to eco-friendly solutions as evident in their enrollment statistics:

USF Go Green Timeline

April 2008, USF President, Judy Genshaft, signed the American College & University
Presidents Climate Commitment during the Getting Green by Going Green Expo.
In 2009, USF students came up with a project to say goodbye to plastic water bottles on
the campus. This project was a part of USFs commitment to fight Global Warming. The
students started this project to keep millions of water bottles out of landfills and save
students money spent on water bottles as well.
July 2009, The New Office of Sustainability is created with E. Christian Wells as the
founding director.
April 24, 2009 USF students won the EPAs prestigious People, Prosperity, and Planet
(P3) Competition and was awarded a 75,000 grant.
In 2010, USF ranked 25th out of the nation and 2nd in Florida in the Recyclemania
waste minimization contest. This contest is based on the amount of municipal solid
waste that is generated per person that is on the campus.
In 2010, USF opens the Patel College of Global Sustainability and the USFs Patel
Center for Global Solutions.
December 3, 2010, USF ranked 3rd in recycling and 4th in greenhouse reduction in the
Environmental Projections Game Day challenge during the NCAA Division I, Big East
Conference.
In 2011, USF was named Sierra Magazine's "Cool Schools" for its accomplishments and
commitment in sustainability and is also ranked in the top ten for the same
achievement in 2014.
2011, USF receives a Gold rating for its environmentally focused initiatives on
campus.
In 2012, the Patels donated $12 million to
the University of South Florida for the
College of Global Sustainability.
In 2012, USF, Hillsborough EPC and TECO
Energy merged together to create and sign
a new agreement to create a Clean Cities
Coalition. This agreement promotes the

use of alternative fuels in transportation in the Tampa Bay area.

In 2012, USF received the Second Nature Climate Leadership Award for that year.
In 2012, USF's Interdisciplinary Sciences building received the Gold Standard rating as
an LEED certified building.
August 20, 2014 USF becomes on the Princeton Review's 2014 Green Rating Honor
Roll, and is the only University in Florida to have accomplished this thus far.
In 2014, the Patel Colleges gave out its first Eminent Global Scholar in Sustainability
Award to a Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Dr. Rajendra
Pachauri.
The graduating class of 2015 is the first to wear the new USF gowns that are each made
out of 23 recycled water bottles. This truly shows how USF and their students are
dedicated to being a sustainable and environmentally conscious campus.

What is ACUPCC? How is USF affiliated?

ACUPCC is the American College University Presidents Climate Commitment, which is
a high-visibility effort that creates a network of colleges and universities that are committed
to accelerating research and educate to re-stabilize the Earths climate and neutralize their
greenhouse gas emissions. The mission of ACUPCC is to have institutions recognize and
commit to the progress of climate neutrality and sustainability and to have higher education
educate the students, help create solutions, and set an example for everyone in society. The
institutions who agree with ACUPCC sign that they will, as found on the American College and
University Presidents Climate Commitment webpage under the article Mission and History:
1. Complete an accounting method of pollutants that are released into the air.
2. Set an ideal deadline and aspiration that within two years, climate can become neutral.
3. Utilize short-term steps to take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Integrate sustainability into the curriculum and make it part of the educational experience.
5. Make the action plan, inventory and progress reports publicly available.
Cited : http://www.presidentsclimatecommitment.org/about/mission-history
The University of South Florida president, Judy Genshaft, signed the ACUPCC in 2008. Ever
since she signed the agreement, the university has become a noticeably greener campus.
The faculty and students dedication to becoming a more environmentally friendly and climate
neutral campus has been recognized throughout the nation. In 2012, USF was presented with
Second Nature Climate Leadership Award endorsed by the lead supporting organization of
ACUPCC. In an article on the University of South Florida website titled USF Received Top
Accolade for Environmental Action the founding director of the Office of Sustainability,
Christian Wells, was quoted that even though the award doesnt come with any fancy prize or
money, it does bring with it a deep sense of reward, knowing that our research on climate
change and our engagement with the Tampa Bay community is being honored at the highest
levels. The university is known around the world for a lot of things, and now we add our
commitment to saving the planet. The University of South Florida St. Petersburg has also
signed commitment with ACUPCC and states that their immediate steps are:
1. Initiate a strategy with guidelines for construction on all of the USF campuses to be
built by the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED Silver standard or equivalent.
2. Select a purchase policy for energy-efficient appliances with ENERGY STAR certified
product requirements.

How to Become LEED Certified

The Science and Technology Building at USFSP contains many green features such as
storm water runoff management, bicycle storage, electric vehicle charging stations and water
efficient landscaping.
The LEED is the set of rating systems for the maintenance of green buildings and their
construction and operation. It stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.
They help building owners be responsible and use their resources efficiently. There are four
levels of certification- Certified, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These levels are based on the
number of credits the building accrues in the categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency,
energy and atmosphere, materials and resources and indoor environmental quality.
The University of South Florida and its different campuses have strived to become
LEED Certified with their Green Buildings. LEED Buildings save money and resources while
promoted a clean and renewable energy. Having your building as LEED certified is the best
way to demonstrate that your project has truly gone green.
Along with the already LEED Certified green buildings at the University of South
Florida, they are anticipating a few other buildings throughout different campuses to become
LEED certified, including the new USF Polytechnic Phase 1 located in Lakeland. USF has a few
buildings already certified as Gold by LEED, including the USFs Interdisciplinary Sciences
and Dr. Kiran C. Patel Center for Global Solutions located in Tampa, and the Science and
Technology building and the University Student Center located at the St. Petersburg campus.
The Kate Tiedemann College of Business at the St. Petersburg campus is also anticipated to be
LEED Gold certified.

2014 Designated Tree Campus Area

Tree Campus USA helps colleges and universities around the country establish and
contain healthy trees and forests around the community. In order to meet the Tree Campus
USA Recognition, the campus must meet the five standards; Campus tree advisory committee,
campus tree care plan, Campus Tree Program with Dedicated Annual Expenditures, Arbor Day
Observance, and Service Learning Projects. The University of South Florida received the
Designated Tree Campus Recognition in 2014. When USF first opened in 1956, the campus had
no trees but within the past 15 years alone, USF has planted more than 3,500 trees to help the
visual appearance but to mainly promote the importance of trees and benefits they have to
our world. Trees reduce energy costs from shade, absorbs water from the rain which limits
storm water runoff, and even enhances air quality through a filtration process. Receiving this
recognition is a commitment to reduce the energy a campus and/or a community needs to
produce by planting a lot of trees.

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USFSP Goes Green

The University of South Florida was entitled one of the Nations Top Go Green
Campuses due to the University going above and beyond to make all its satellite campuses
environmentally friendly. The University of South Florida Saint Petersburg (USFSP) is
becoming more eco-friendly.. It is a sustainable campus as well, working on different projects
involving climate and energy, waste management, water efficiency, transportation, green
buildings, and green purchasing. USFSP has strategic goals to make their campus more
environmentally efficient and beneficial for not only today but the future as well. As there
Sustainability Strategic Plan is stated on their Sustainability page through their campus
website as:
STRATEGIES 5.1 Develop an integrated strategic enrollment plan 5.2 Optimize space
and facilities to support academic, residential and co-curricular needs. 5.3 Promote and
support environmentally sustainable practices. 5.4 Recruit, develop, nurture and retain
the necessary faculty and staff to achieve mission and goals. 5.5 Strengthen IT, distance
learning, library and instructional services to ensure the deployment of innovative
teaching and research technologies as they become available. 5.6 Continue
commitment to shared governance by supporting USF System and USF St. Petersburg
faculty and governance structures. 5.7 Design and enhance internal and external
communication systems to support mission and goals.
The University of South Florida St. Petersburg has signed an agreement with the
American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment (ACUPCC) to make their
campus a more sustainable college with climate and energy changes. The university commits
to completing a greenhouse gas inventory, setting target dates and milestones to become
climate neutral by having a Climate Action Plan, This plan will enforce immediate actions to
lower greenhouse gas emissions, integrating sustainability into the curriculum as well as
making going green a part of the educational experience students encounter, and lastly
making all of their action plans and progress documented into something that the public can
access.
There projects in climate and energy have included the butterfly garden that was
created in 2014 and was designed and paid for by the students at USFSP. It is also a certified by
the North American Butterfly Association Butterfly Garden and the Wildlife Habitat through
the National Wildlife Foundation. The garden only features native Florida plants which makes
it special to its home. Another project is the USFSP/ Duke Energy PV Solar Array. Duke Energy
Florida has awarded USFSP a one million dollar SunSense grant to research and fund a new
solar battery project that can use and store solar energy. This included a 00-kilowatt solar
photovoltaic system that is now stored at the top of the Universitys St. Petersburg campus
parking garage.

11

USFSP is also environmentally conscious with their waste management. They dispose
of batteries and computers at local recycling centers, have automatic power off technology in
classrooms and labs that are idle, mobile phone recycling, battery and print cartridge recycling
and purchases to promote the use of recycled paper for computing needs and RoHS low power
computer hardware and peripherals.
The Student Green Energy Fund at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg has
helped fund 90% of the recycling on campus. Theyve placed recycling bins that have different
sections for regular trash, aluminum and plastic in twenty different locations around campus.
Each bin was made out of 937 recycled milk jugs.

Students at the University of South

Florida St. Petersburg come together
throughout the year to help keep their
school free of waste and help preserve
the bay they call home.

Interviews
This interview was conducted by Chloe Daubenspeck who interviewed Dr. Stephan
Schindler, Chair of the World Languages Department at USF and Dr. Margit Grieb, Head of the
German Section of the WLE at USF.
1. First off, what does going green mean to you?
a. Stephan: Educating my faculty and my teaching assistants to use electronic course
packages, tests, work sheets instead of papers. I would like to get rid of our copy
machine all together. I would also like to encourage deans to help with aiding an
electronic storage instead of paper storage. Finally, I would like to get rid of all office
phones because they cost a lot of money. Personally to me it means to consciously
reduce my carbon footprint. For example, people who like organic food have to make
sure that it is regionally grown and not imported from Peru and Mexico.

12

b. Margit: Recycling, alternative energy and public transportation instead of cars.

2. USF has taken a major step in the past couples years in becoming a more sustainable
campus and is all together going green. We as a community have signed the American
College University Presidents Climate Commitment, became LEED certified and have several
clubs whose main focus is on going green, along with many more environmental solutions.
Do you think USF is taking the correct steps in the right direction, or do you think there are
more effective ways to go green?
a. Stephan: Encourage students use bikes by building better bike lanes, and giving
them the right away. It is very dangerous for them. USF could also throw in its political
power by challenging the republican leadership in tally to fed funding for a light railway
system in FL which would help local and state economy. For example, a tourist in
Orlando would have to take a tour bus or rent a car or you could have a railway system
that connects the two. Even students would use this.
b. Margit: I think USF has gone into the right direction, but has not gone far enough.
Public transportation on campus and to and from campus is still not a viable option for
people that live off campus. The campus should use more local vendors and dining
options for locally grown produce, including the increase of vegetarian and vegan
options on campus.

3. One of the most difficult things for environmental groups to accomplish has been to reach
out to schools in a way that is both meaningful and effective in a consistent manner. What
are some ways to improve such issues?
a. Stephan: It is basically education. Im not sure if this is being done, but
environmental groups should talk to them and see what they can do for them. People
need to be able to feel it in their daily lives and have it affect them personally.
b. Margit: Special events that highlight environmental concerns. Campaigns to
increase car sharing and bicycle usage.

4. When we look at the issue of climate change, regulating carbon emissions is essential.
What do you say to this, and what would be your approach to the massive challenge
ahead?

13

a. Stephan: I second and would also add a big challenge to taxing gas. No one uses
public transportation if its not cheaper than a car.
b. Margit: Improve public transportation options in the Tampa bay region.

5. As the Chair of the department of World Languages (Head of the German Department),
do you do anything relating to sustainability or going green?
a. Stephan: Reduce paper use for research and teaching by introducing quotas for
each faculty. Ultimate goal is to not use anymore paper. Reduction of telephone use
and light use.
b. Margit: I require all TAs to avoid using paper in classes. I give workshops on how to
use canvas effectively.

6. Lastly, since we are in Germany, I might as well ask you about your original home.
Germany is a global leader when it comes to going green and being more environmentally
conscience. What makes them so successful in this movement and what do you think we
could learn from this European green powerhouse?
a. Stephan: Model collaboration between public and private sector with the creation
of sustainable energy systems. Conscious efforts by most urban Germans to use alternative
modes of transportation (walking, cycling..). High taxation of electricity and etc. It forces
people to use less.
b. Margit: ALL Germans believe in climate change. The government subsidizes most
environmental campaigns and ordinances. Such as solar and wind power. Germans are very
conscientious about following the law and German law is very strict about recycling.

Interviewees Dr. Stephan Schindler, Chair of the World

Languages Department at USF and Dr. Margit Grieb, Head
of the German Section of the WLE at USF

14

This interview was conducted by Mallory Dupuis who interviewed Teri Deardorff a USFSP
Ambassador, USC Summer Conference Assistant, Director of Traditions - Harbor side
Activities Board, Vice Director - 2015 Week of Welcome, and an old member of the Student
Green Energy Fund (SGEF).

1. Can you describe to me what the Student Green Energy Fund is and what SGEF did for
the community and the campus?
Student Green Energy Fund (SGEF) is a $1 per credit hour fee for each student in each
semester that gets pooled into one account that can be used, at the discretion of the SGEF
committee made of student, faculty, and staff voting members, for projects that directly
impact (by lowering) our greenhouse gas emissions and wastes on campus. Currently,
Student Green Energy Fund has voted to fund projects (proposed also by students, faculty,
or staff) such as the Solar Doks (near the waterfront and the pole on Harborwalk near STG),
fast fill water fountains, the Curve treadmills and green bikes, the hybrid truck utilized by
the waterfront, and several other projects.

2. What was your role in the Student Green Energy Fund?

I was involved with SGEF between August 2012 and January 2014. During that time, I
worked mainly as the ranking media officer and worked closely with Dan McGarigal on our
online presence.

3. What kind of projects did you do while in the Student Green Energy Fund?
During my time with SGEF, as the ranking media officer I worked with our Facebook page
and getting us set up on PeteSync when we got that system for our campus. I also worked
really closely with Race for the Watts, which is a program where we partner with Campus
Recreation at the Fitness Center to raise awareness about SGEF and the projects that we
have in place in the fitness center - the treadmills, bikes, and water bottle refill stations.

4. Do you believe Student Green Energy Fund makes a big impact on the community?
I think SGEF makes a big impact on our community. It allows our community members to
spot problems or things that can be made better and create their own solutions to the
issues, with the added benefit of having those ideas actually come to life and make real
impacts!!

15

5. As an Ambassador at the University of South Florida, do you do any thing relating to

sustainability/ going green?
Currently, the Ambassadors do not have any sustainability or green initiatives. It's not
something we are not opposed to though! We would definitely love to partner with any
orgs if they wanted to work with us!

Interviewee Teri Deardorff at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg

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Duke Energy Grants 1 Million to USFSP Solar Research

In May of 2015, Duke Energy revealed a new solar battery project and granted a one
million dollar grant to fund research at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. This new
solar battery project is exploring and researching how to store and use energy from the sun by
placing a 100-kilowatt solar photovoltaic system on top of the St. Petersburg Campus parking
garage. The solar energy that is not used in parking garage for lighting, elevators and charging
of electric vehicles will be stored in battery systems or put for immediate use. In an article
online posted by AZO Cleantech, New Solar Battery Project Unveiled by Duke Energy Florida
and USFSP, they state how the USFSP Regional Chancellor, Sophia Wisniewska, commented
on the subject saying "This is an opportunity to manage energy costs, while promoting
sustainability on campus." The solar array placed on top of the USFSP Parking Garage is
approximately 7,100 square feet, with 318 individual panels.

USF Sarasota- Manatee Joins USFs Go Green Movement

In 2010, the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus added a new chiller
plant with a new thermal storage system. This system, called the Central Energy Plant, has
helped the university drop energy costs by 25% since the campus opened in 2006. Regional
Chancellor Dr. Arthur Guilford believes that this project will continue to drop costs by $100,000
dollars a year. The Central Energy Plant system is supporting the USF Sarasota Manatee
campus to achieve the LEED certification for campus facilities. The students at this campus
have also created a program called the Adopt-A-Road program, which has been honored by
the Keep Sarasota County Beautiful. This program is affiliated with the Student Government
17

Association and four times a year, the students participate in cleanup of the University
Parkway road. The students at USFSM are also incorporating other green initiatives like
placing recycling bins around the campus, switching to LED light bulbs, and providing reusable
water bottles for students. They also have multiple projects and programs for students to get
involved with like the Go Green Beach Clean, Habitat for Humanity, and others to make the
campus a more sustainable university.

Join the Movement- Get Involved in Going Green with USF!

Get Involved- USFSP Style
USFSP invites students to join and participate in the Clubs on campus like the Student
Environmental Awareness Society and the Garden Club. As well as looking into the Clean
Energy and Resource Conservation Commission (CERCC) the Student Green Energy Fund
(SGEF). They also offer transportation alternatives like the car and bike share programs, PSTA
U-Pass, and EV charging!
Get Involved- USF Tampa Style
Tampa students and faculty have multiple ways in which students can get involved, you
can join the college of sustainability, the SGEF fund, or even find ways off campus to get
involved with going green. The website, Compositing Green books, is a student based website

18

that gives ideas to making the community a more sustainable place whether its on campus or
off. The Education for a Sustainable World University of South Florida, which site gives a way
for students who are interested in the environment a way to join a discussion forum and speak
of issues. This avenue of research could be used to present the participation of the student
body as a whole. In allowing a public forum for people to share their sustainability-related
concerns and interests, it provides bonding opportunities amongst the community. Your input
could cause others to agree and come about new projects in making the community more
sustainable!

Get Involved: YOUR style!

Take action and educate others on the effects of going green, become environmentally
conscience, and create a sustainable environment and natural climate. Apply for jobs and
internships with opportunities in a career with sustainability. Volunteer at different places to
help contribute to our home. Use less plastic, reuse anything you can, know recycling
guidelines, and educate future generations of how to be more conscious of the environment!
Little steps will count in the long run, and not only is it cost beneficial, but it helps elongate our
resources to be used for as long as possible.

Conclusion
Over the last 8 years, the University of South Florida has implemented numerous
sustainable projects to reduce its carbon footprint. USF Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota
have all made significant contributions to create a more eco-friendly environment. USFs
students, faculty and staff have embraced the challenge of global climate change and continue
to make strides in improving the environment throughout their respected communities.
Reducing waste, constructing LEED buildings, encouraging public transportation, minimizing
energy costs and many other eco-friendly practices have made USF a nationally recognized
university in sustainable commitment. While the future may remain in doubt, USF continues to
make the going green movement a top priority. Our commitment and innovative ideas
continue to push for a more sustainable environment.

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Glossary of Terms
1. AASHE Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education
2. ACUPCC the American College University Presidents Climate Commitment
3. CLIMATE ACTION PLAN A set of strategies intended to guide efforts for reducing
greenhouse gas emissions.
4. CARBON FOOTPRINT the amount of carbon dioxide and other carbon compounds
emitted due to the consumption of fossil fuels by a particular person, group, etc.
5. CLIMATE CHANGE A change in global or regional climate patterns, in particular a
change apparent from the mid to late 20th century onwards and attributed largely to
the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels.
6. DUKE ENERGY is the largest electric power holding company in the United States
7. EV CHARGING Referring to an electric vehicle charging station, also called EV
charging station, that is an element in an infrastructure that supplies electric energy for
the recharging of electric vehicles.
8. GREEN BUILDING The practice of creating structures and using processes that are
environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout a building's life-cycle
from siting to design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation and
deconstruction.
9. GREEN MOVEMENT A scientific, social, and political movement for addressing
environmental issues such as conservation of environment as well as improving the
state of environment.
10. LEED CERTIFICATION Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A Rating
system that offers four certification levels for new construction -- Certified, Silver, Gold
and Platinum -- that correspond to the number of credits accrued in five green design
categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and
resources and indoor environmental quality.
11. ROHS Restriction of Hazardous Substances. RoHS restricts the use of specific
hazardous materials found in electrical and electronic products.
12. SGEF Student Green Energy Fund
13. SUSTAINABILITY Something that improves the quality of human life while living
within the carrying capacity of supporting eco-systems.

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Annotated Bibliography
"Duke Energy, USF St. Petersburg to Fire up $1 Million Solar Panel System." Tampa Bay
Times. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015. <http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/energy/dukeenergy-usf-st-petersburg-to-fire-up-1-million-solar-panel-system/2230103>.
Duke Energy partnered with USFSP in building a 100 kilo-watt solar panel system that
will be placed atop of USFSPs parking garage. USFSP hopes that this will help gather
research to explore the integration of storing solar energy in new battery systems,
while helping to reduce energy costs. This shows how USFSP involves itself in energy
reduction practices.
"Engineers for a Sustainable World at USF." Engineers for a Sustainable World at USF.
N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015. <http://www.eswusf.org/usfsustainabilitypartners/index.html>.
This site gives a way for students who are interested in the environment a way to join a
discussion forum and speak about environmental issues impacting our community. This
avenue of research could be used to present the participation of the student body as a
whole. It would create a public forum for people to share their sustainability-related
concerns and interests; it provides bonding opportunities amongst the community.
"Going Green and Saving Green: University of South Florida Celebrates One-Year All
Ecos Anniversary." Sustainable Trends in Foodservice. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://ecotakeouts.com/reusable-to-go-blog/?p=136>.
USF has also revolutionized itself among other universities by reducing waste through a
program called Eco-Takeouts. As of 2010, USF has eliminated all types of Styrofoam
takeouts by adding a $4.00 deposit fee on meal plans. Prior to implementing this fee,
Styrofoam containers contributed to over 30% of all garbage and over 250,000
containers were discarded annually. With this fee, USF Dining Services have saved over
$6,000 dollars. This initiative is just one of many ways that the USF foodservice has
implemented in order to save money, reduce waste and practice a more sustainable
environment.
"Green Initiatives." Undergraduate Admissions. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.usfsp.edu/undergrad/green/>.
USF Tampa has been the focal point of providing a template as to how we can reduce
our universitys carbon footprint but USFSP has taken on its own initiatives in
committing itself to environmental stewardship. USFSP prides itself on battery and
computer disposal with its local partnerships, mobile phone and ink cartridge recycling
and purchasing recycled paper for all its computer needs. The student body has

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embraced this green initiative and has integrated sustainable practices within the
faculty, staff and community of St. Petersburg. Along with this movement, USFSP
created the Student Green Energy Fund in 2011 and accrued $300,000 dollars towards
renewable energy and efficiency projects.

"Sustainability Challenge." - University of South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?z=0&a=4276>.
In 2012, USF was a finalist and winner in the Second Nature 2012 Climate Leadership
Award for the Doctorate Granting University Category. This shows an increase in effort
by USF to become a recognized university with regards to its dedication to
conservation and reduction practices since signing the American Colleges and
Universitys Climate Commitment in 2008.
"University of South Florida College Sustainability Report Card 2011." University of
South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.greenreportcard.org/report-card-2011/schools/university-of-south-florida.html>.
This report shows how USF has conducted a greenhouse gas emission inventory in
order to reduce its carbon footprint. The university audits individual energy
consumption and has monitoring energy displays around campus. Much of USF
generates its renewable energy through solar panels and is continuing to purchase its
electricity through renewable sources of energy. Along with transportation, green
buildings and student initiatives, USF received a B+ for its overall grade and is
continuing to improve on its sustainable practices and getting the community more
involved.
"University of South Florida Continues to Make Advances in Campus Sustainability."
Patel School of Global Sustainability RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://psgs.usf.edu/news/article/university-of-south-florida-continues-to-make-advances-incampus-sustainabi>.
Further material shows how the progression of USF and its accomplishments are
receiving the Gold rating in their Sustainability, Tracking, Assessment & Rating System
(STAR) The Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education
(AASHE) and being recognized as a Tree Campus USA from the National Arbor Day
Foundation. These achievements could be used to show examples of USFs
participation within the green movement.

22

"USF Electric Car Owners Get a Boost." The Oracle. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.usforacle.com/news/view.php/861720/USF-electric-car-owners-get-a-boost>.
In 2015, John Pilzs proposal to make electric car charging stations available on USFs
campus received funding from the Student Green Energy Fund. For the installation of
additional electric vehicle charging stations on USFs Tampa and St. Petersburg
campus, Duke Energy and Nissan donated USFSPs charging station, which will be used
for research with the help of USFSP College of Engineering. This shows another student
initiative in creating a more energy efficient university that will benefit its students and
the universitys energy emissions.
"USF Graduation Gowns Made of Plastic Bottles." 10NEWS. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June
2015. <http://www.wtsp.com/story/news/local/2015/03/25/water-botle-gradgowns/70441424/>.
This source is further proof of USFs commitment to going green in ways that are both
efficient, cost-effective and applicable to everyone. USF has used reusable plastics to
make graduation gowns and has shown its dedication and ingenuity providing ecofriendly alternatives.
"USF One of Nation's Top Green Colleges." - University of South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web.
16 June 2015. <http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?a=2295>.
States how the University of South Florida is a nationally ranked green campus and
adds credibility to the white paper. The Princetons Review Guide of 286 colleges has
USF as one of the top universities in the nation that has shown a commitment to
sustainability. In 2010, USF launched the nations first School of Global Sustainability,
which prepared students for green collar careers. USF President Judy Genshaft
campaigned for the American College and University Presidents Climate Commitment
program, which would be designated to reduce carbon emissions. Sustainability by all
of USFs campuses has embraced environmental initiatives by faculty, staff and
students to make going green a priority
"USF St. Petersburg Student Green Energy Fund (SGEF)." USFSP Connect. N.p., n.d.
Web. 16 June 2015. <http://www.usfspconnect.com/usf-st-petersburg-student-green-energyfund-sgef/>.
The Student Green Energy Fund is another example of involvement at the local and
student level in creating a more sustainable environment surrounding USF. This
student-led organization cooperates with USF Tampas Office of Sustainability in order
to propose and push forth student ideas and proposals.

23

Works Cited
"About the Authors." Sociological Forum 28.1 (2013): 206-11. Web.
"Attention: Application Deadline for the MA Program Is May 1 for International and July
1 for Domestic Students." Patel School of Global Sustainability RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June
2015. <http://psgs.usf.edu/news/article/usf-designated-as-2014-tree-campus-usa>.
"Duke Energy, USF St. Petersburg to Fire up $1 Million Solar Panel System." Tampa Bay
Times. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015. <http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/energy/dukeenergy-usf-st-petersburg-to-fire-up-1-million-solar-panel-system/2230103>.
"Engineers for a Sustainable World at USF." Engineers for a Sustainable World at USF.
N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015. <http://www.eswusf.org/usfsustainabilitypartners/index.html>.
"Going Green and Saving Green: University of South Florida Celebrates One-Year All
Ecos Anniversary." Sustainable Trends in Foodservice. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://ecotakeouts.com/reusable-to-go-blog/?p=136>.
"Green Initiatives." Undergraduate Admissions. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.usfsp.edu/undergrad/green/>.
"LET'S GET GREEN!" Green USF! N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015.
<http://devargas.myweb.usf.edu/index.html>.
"New Solar Battery Project Unveiled by Duke Energy Florida and USFSP." New Solar
Battery Project Unveiled by Duke Energy Florida and USFSP. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015.
<http://www.azocleantech.com/news.aspx?newsID=21898>.
"Planting Trees for a More Sustainable and Livable Campus." - University of South
Florida. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015. <http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?a=3529>.
Sgef, The, Approved By The Florida Board Of Governors In 2011,, Students At The Usf
Tampa Campus Are Given The, and Opportunity To Vote In A Student Body Referendum
Every. STUDENT GREEN ENERGY FUND: TURNING GOLD TO GREEN AT USF Student Green
Energy Fund (n.d.): n. pag. Web.
"Sustainability | Climate/Energy." Sustainability. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015.
<http://www.usfsp.edu/sustainability/climate/>.

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"Sustainability | Sustainable Campus." Sustainability. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015.

<http://www.usfsp.edu/sustainability/sustainable-campus/>.
"University of South Florida College Sustainability Report Card 2011." University of
South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.greenreportcard.org/report-card-2011/schools/university-of-south-florida.html>.
"University of South Florida Continues to Make Advances in Campus Sustainability."
Patel School of Global Sustainability RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://psgs.usf.edu/news/article/university-of-south-florida-continues-to-make-advances-incampus-sustainabi>.
"USF Electric Car Owners Get a Boost." The Oracle. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June 2015.
<http://www.usforacle.com/news/view.php/861720/USF-electric-car-owners-get-a-boost>.
"USF Graduation Gowns Made of Plastic Bottles." 10NEWS. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 June
2015. <http://www.wtsp.com/story/news/local/2015/03/25/water-botle-gradgowns/70441424/>.
"USF One of Nation's Top Green Colleges." - University of South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web.
17 June 2015. <http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?a=2295>.
"USF Receives Top Accolade for Environmental Action." - University of South Florida.
N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015. <http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?a=4422>.
"USF Sarasota-Manatee Goes." USF SarasotaManatee. N.p., 09 Nov. 2010. Web. 17
June 2015. <http://usfsm.edu/blog/usf-sarasota-manatee-goes-green-with-new-centralenergy-chiller-plant/>.
"USF-SM Is Going Green." - University of South Florida. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 June 2015.
<http://news.usf.edu/article/templates/?a=2361>.
"USF St. Petersburg Student Green Energy Fund (SGEF)." USFSP Connect. N.p., n.d.
Web. 16 June 2015. <http://www.usfspconnect.com/usf-st-petersburg-student-green-energyfund-sgef/>.

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