Student Green Fund
Sustainability at Southern Oregon University
At SOU, every student contributes to a greener campus through the Green Tag fee of $14 per term. This collective effort, small yet impactful, forms the cornerstone of our Green Fund. By pooling these resources, we empower student-led sustainability projects that not only benefit our campus but also set a precedent for environmental stewardship in higher education.
The Green Fund is dedicated to turning student-driven sustainability ideas into reality. Whether it’s a project to enhance energy efficiency or to promote eco-friendly practices, we provide the necessary financial backing and support.
Solar Installations: Harnessing renewable energy across campus.
Water Refill Stations: Encouraging reusable bottles and reducing plastic waste.
Reusable Towels: Eco-Friendly Practices at the Student Recreation Center.
Bioswale in Parking Lot 36: An innovative approach to water management.
The Farm at SOU: Cultivating sustainable agriculture and education.
For those considering a proposal, start by consulting the ASSOU Director of Sustainability at assousustain@sou.edu. Your project’s journey from concept to funding is unique, and we’re here to guide you through each step. Remember, great ideas take time – from application to approval, the journey might span a few months.
Eligibility: Open to SOU students with a staff or faculty sponsor.
Large Projects: Proposals over $5,000 require a preliminary review by the SOU Sustainability Council. Contact Becs Walker at walkerr6@sou.edu for guidance.
ASSOU Director of Sustainability and Civic Engagement, assousustain@sou.edu
Becs Walker, Director of Sustainability, walkerr6@sou.edu
Water Offset Credits (2012 – 2022)
Investment: $805,250 from Green Fund over 10 years, with more in the future
Achievement: SOU became the first university to offset 100% of its water footprint. Initiatives included supporting the Whychus Creek Water Restoration Project and piping leaky irrigation ditches to conserve water and protect stream flows. These efforts have contributed to regional water conservation and demonstrated SOU’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Solar Panel Installations on Campus Buildings (2013 – 2021)
Investment: A total of $283,000 from Green Fund for various installations
Impact: These projects included solar panels on The Farm, Stevenson Union, McLoughlin Residence Halls, and SOU Library, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and utility costs, while creating a regenerative revenue model for the Green Fund. The solar installations demonstrate SOU’s proactive approach to renewable energy and have substantially contributed to the university’s energy independence goals. See more about SOU’s solar here.
Student Rec Center – Towel Bins (2021)
Investment: $4,558 from Green Fund
Benefit: The introduction of sustainable towel bins in the Student Recreation Center, replacing single-use wipes, promotes environmental consciousness in daily student activities. This small yet impactful change has led to a reduction in waste and an increase in sustainable practices within the student community, setting a precedent for eco-friendly initiatives in other areas of campus life. Learn more about the Rec Center here.
Lot 36 Water Detention Pond (2019)
Investment: $45,500 from Green Fund
Impact: This project led to the creation of a self-sustaining bioswale in parking lot 36, effectively managing stormwater and significantly reducing contaminants in local waterways. Additionally, it serves as a practical model for eco-friendly water management, enhancing the campus’s landscape and providing educational opportunities in environmental science.
The Farm at SOU (2017)
Investment: $190,000 from Green Fund
Purpose: The Farm serves as a living lab for sustainability research and projects. It’s a hub for education, sustainable business development, promoting interconnectedness, and facilitating leadership training. The Farm also acts as a community centerpiece, bringing together students, faculty, and local residents to collaborate on sustainable agricultural practices. See more about The Farm here.
‘Take Back the Tap’ – Water Refill Stations (2016)
Investment: $18,088 from Green Fund
Outcome: The initiative ensured the installation of water refill stations in every building on campus, promoting the use of reusable water bottles and supporting the ‘Take Back the Tap’ campaign to eliminate non-reusable bottles. This project significantly reduced plastic waste on campus and fostered a culture of sustainability among students and staff.
