September 12, 2025
Next week is USC Green Week!
At USC, we understand our future is shaped by the sustainable choices and actions we make today. That’s why we’re working to foster a socially, environmentally, and economically responsible university to achieve our ambitious Assignment: Earth goals.
Our efforts stretch across our institution and include sustainability-focused research, coursework, and initiatives to ensure our buildings, grounds, and operations are more energy, water, and waste efficient. These actions represent our dedication to a thriving university and world, and I thank you for your participation. Now read on for some exciting news!
- According to more than 8,000 respondents to the 2025 USC Sustainability Survey, 73% “Agree” or “Strongly Agree” that the university has a culture that cultivates sustainability.
- More solar is coming to campus! Over 1,000 solar panels providing up to 10% of the Carole Little Building’s (CAL) electricity needs are being installed on its rooftop.
- When USC Surplus Sales opens this fall, you’ll be able to shop for gently used equipment, furniture, and other goods at affordable prices. You’ll score a bargain while keeping items out of the local landfill.
- For the second year, all Keck Medicine of USC hospitals were recognized by Practice Greenhealth for sustainability leadership in healthcare.
As we celebrate USC Green Week, I encourage you to join your fellow Trojans in embracing these four simple sustainability actions as part of your daily routine.
- Sort your trash in the three-stream waste diversion bins located across campus. Keep recyclable and compostable waste out of local landfills.
- Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at 200+ campus hydration stations. Help USC continue to keep plastic beverage bottles – over five million and counting – from entering the waste stream.
- Eat a plant-forward diet, and get ready to make your dining choices even more eco-friendly with the Choose to Reuse program! Coming soon, enjoy meals in reusable containers at select USC Campus Dining venues.
- Use public transportation. Green your commute and save money by enrolling in the Student U-Pass Program or Employee Transit Subsidy. Your shared commitment to these and other actions is making an impact. To learn more, visit the Assignment: Earth progress dashboard.
Your shared commitment to these and other actions is making an impact. To learn more, visit the Assignment: Earth progress dashboard.
Happy Green Week, Trojans – and remember, building our sustainable future is a big assignment and USC is all in!
Mick Dalrymple
Chief Sustainability Officer