About the Student Green Fund
The Student Green Fund (SGF) at the University of Toledo is a student-driven initiative dedicated to fostering sustainability on campus. Funded through voluntary student donations, the SGF empowers students to design, propose, and implement projects that address environmental challenges, enhance resource efficiency, and promote sustainable practices. By supporting initiatives in renewable energy, waste reduction, and education, the SGF serves as a catalyst for environmental impact while providing students with leadership and hands-on experience in sustainability efforts. Together, we are creating a greener, more resilient UToledo.
Mission Statement
The purpose of the organization shall be to make The University of Toledo a more sustainable institution. The Student Green Fund will have initiatives proposed, decided upon, implemented by, and ultimately funded directly by students in order to bring to campus an increased level of competence in the areas of environmental, social, and economic sustainability, an increased level of student engagement in these areas, and a heightened student sense of ownership of the University’s responsibility as an Ohio Center of Excellence in Advanced Renewable Energy and the Environment. Activities and programs sponsored by this organization will keep within the organization's stated objectives.
In the context of Student Green Fund, sustainability is defined as: The United Nations defines sustainability as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” Sustainability is divided into three distinct pillars. First is environmental sustainability since all fundamental life requirements come from the environment. Environmental protection is critical because an equitable society and vibrant economy cannot occur without it. Social sustainability is next and encompasses personal responsibility and equal treatment of all. The final pillar, economic sustainability, involves wise use of natural and funding resources to ensure continued growth. To achieve a world that is truly sustainable, the interconnectivity between sustainability pillars must be considered.
How Do We Get Funding?
The Student Green Fund is fueled by the generous support of the University of Toledo student body. Thanks to the collective commitment to sustainability, the $5 voluntary fee that contributes to the fund has transitioned from an opt-in to an opt-out status. By contributing to the SGF, students chose to actively invest in renewable energy initiatives, waste reduction efforts, and innovative solutions that make our campus greener and more sustainable.
Goals for Green Fund Projects
- Measurable Sustainability Impact
Projects funded by SGF are required to demonstrate a significant and measurable contribution to improving sustainability on campus, whether through energy conservation, waste reduction, or innovative environmental practices. - Community Engagement
Each project must actively involve the campus community, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and collaboration. - Outreach and Publicity
Proposals must include strategies to promote the project, such as creating a mandatory blog post on MyUT. This enhances visibility, shares project objectives and outcomes, and encourages others to participate. - Educational Value
Projects should prioritize education by raising awareness about sustainability issues and inspiring future initiatives that align with SGF’s mission. - Encouraging Participation
The visibility of these initiatives helps promote SGF’s broader mission and increases student involvement in sustainability efforts, strengthening UT's commitment to a greener future.