Awards & Recognition
USD E-Waste Collection Center Ranked #1 in 2013 Recyclemania Challenge
The University of San Diego won the electronics division of the 2013 RecycleMania Tournament. During the eight-week competition from February to March, USD beat out participating colleges and universities across the country by collecting 80,000 pounds of old computers, monitors, cell phones and other e-waste.
Fowler Park, LEED Silver Certification
Completed in Spring 2013, General contractor Turner Construction Company utilized a sustainable site design, local and recycled materials, low-flow plumbing fixtures and more. Fowler Park has Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification and it is the second LEED-certified structure on campus.
California Center for Sustainable Energy, Outstanding Sustainable Organization of the Year 2012
On March 22, 2012, the University of San Diego was recognized as the “Outstanding Organization of the Year” from the California Center for Sustainable Energy at its eight annual Energy All-Star Awards. The San Diego-based center cited USD as a “leader in sustainable facilities and programs through the integration of green transportation, progressive energy management and community leadership in waste reduction.” The university has installed one of the largest rooftop solar installations in the country with 1.23 megawatts, opened a community electronic waste collection center and encouraged alternative transportation through biking, carpooling, and car-sharing programs. “USD’s leadership in sustainability stands as an exemplary model of how California leads the nation in our conversion to a clean energy future,” Andrew McAllister, CCSE managing director.
San Diego Gas and Electric, Energy Showcase 2011
In April 2011, the University of San Diego was awarded the “Excellence in Energy Saving Champion in Higher Education” from San Diego Gas and Electric. USD was presented this award for our commitment to energy efficiency and energy savings throughout the university. The video to the award can be found here.
San Diego City Council, University of San Diego Sustainability Day
On April 12, 2011, the Council of the City of San Diego proclaimed University of San Diego Sustainability Day. Through the university’s commitment to sustainability, numerous partnerships throughout the community, comprehensive energy and water usage audits as well as significant savings, USD was presented with this award and proclamation from the city.
Student Life Pavilion, LEED Gold certification
USD’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified green building opened in September 2009 and achieved the Gold certification award in Fall 2010. The Student Life Pavilion (SLP) is located near campus and city public transportation, has more than 30 bike racks on site. The SLP is the main dining option on campus, housing a BioHiTech food digester that transforms 3,200 pounds of food waste into water each week. The SLP uses energy-efficient electric appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling systems as well as utilizing light concrete colors that help reflect solar heat. Water fixtures in the SLP reduce consumption by 20-30%. The roof of the SLP is a green roof planted with vegetation to reduce heat absorption, offset vegetation loss, and reduce the urban heat island effect.
Project Green Challenge – Top 12 Finalist
Jessica West from the Be Blue Go Green Team was a top 12 finalist out of the hundreds of participants throughout the country that Participated in Project Green Challenge. This was a nation-wide 30-day challenge that took place during the month of October to promote an eco-lifestyle. This challenge engaged students to evaluate their lifestyle choices and switch from conventional to conscious living as well as get their school and peers involved in the various challenges for educational and personal growth.
