USF Students and Sustainability

Student Group 2010 The survey focused on: Demographics Climate change awareness Environmental action Environmental action at USF

Concern for the Environment Nearly 80% influenced by environmental factors in everyday behavior Over 40% have been active in a group or organization Almost 50% have ‘voted or worked for candidates because of their position on environmental issues’ Of 14 proposed actions, 13 were supported by more than 50% of the student body.

Student Environmental Organizations Family Tree

Sustainability and GIFT Funding for green projects beginning next semester – Via a $2 fee on tuition prices Ideas for budget: – retrofitting water fountains to fit reusable water bottles – providing re-usable water bottles to all incoming students Need more ideas on how to use their budget

Student Challenges No required course No knowledge of organizations No incentives/motivation No central organization Lack of unity/responsibility “Lack of participation and apathy from USF students” –Kelly Cook

Campus Challenges Disconnect between Student organizations and USF/administration Lack of funding Organization members graduating Limited publicity/recognition Absence of faculty involvement Lack of consideration from administration

Suggestions Freshman seminar on environment Sustainability in student orientation Sustainability in CORE curriculum More accessibility Sustainability coordinator Build stronger environmental community

Freshman Seminar Optional environmental sustainability seminar Combined with a CORE course Incorporated with an environmental class New Student Orientation Would be available to freshman and transfer students Raise environmental awareness among all new students Possibly an online course similar to the alcohol information course

Sustainability in CORE Could be incorporated easily Already multiple classes with environmental focuses Would open up environmental education to all students Best way to promote sustainability: education

Sustainable Business Sustainable Architecture Green Media Religion and the Environment Environmental Ethics Environmental Law Environmental Policy Humans and Environmental Change Classes already offered:

Increase Accessibility Make it easier for students to live sustainably o put a compost next to every trash can o organic/sustainable products in the campus markets Put on more environmental events o Add on to Earth Day celebrations o Club fair mainly for environmental clubs and organizations o Sustainability/Environmental Workshops

Sustainability Coordinator Staff and/or student member who can actively participate with student sustainability efforts Help bridge gap between student and faculty efforts A student or student assistants Organize weekly newsletter -online

First Steps Build community around environmental majors ENVA/ENVS honors program Create a website for environmental departments – Strengthens involvement from environmental majors – Provides a single resource for clubs, faculty, and students Faculty support