Projects and Implementation
Completed Projects by the Student Green Fund
Spring 2024: MC Hammock Park
The MC Hammock Park is a recent SGF-funded project designed to create a relaxing,
eco-friendly outdoor space for students on campus. This initiative supports student
well-being by offering a dedicated area to unwind, study, or socialize while surrounded
by nature. The project highlights SGF’s commitment to improving campus spaces in ways
that promote both environmental sustainability and student engagement.
Fall 2017: High-Efficiency Hand Dryers
The installation of 10 high-efficiency hand dryers marked a significant step toward
reducing waste on campus. These dryers replaced traditional paper towels, minimizing
the waste generated by their use and disposal. Beyond reducing physical waste, this
project addressed the carbon emissions involved in the lifecycle of paper towels,
including their manufacturing, transportation, and disposal processes. Installed across
three campuses, these dryers not only promote sustainability but also reduce the workload
for Environmental Services staff, demonstrating how everyday actions can contribute
to a cleaner, greener campus.
Spring 2017: Bike Repair Stations
As part of the initiative to enhance sustainable transportation, the SGF installed
bike repair stations across campus to support a growing bike culture. Conveniently
located near key spots such as the library and Palmer Hall, these repair stations
empower students to maintain their bikes, encouraging cycling as an eco-friendly mode
of transportation. Coupled with the Rocket Wheels bike share program, this project
fosters health, sustainability, and ease of access, making bicycles a practical choice
for commuting and recreation. The initiative aligns with SGF’s mission to create a
more sustainable and active campus community.
Fall 2016: Solar Tables
SGF collaborated with BOSEF to install three solar-powered tables across campus, providing
a unique blend of utility and sustainability. Positioned near the Student Union, Engineering,
and Health Science campuses, these tables offer students and staff a space to work
or socialize while charging their devices using clean, renewable energy. Manufactured
by EnerFusion Inc., the tables serve as a visible reminder of the potential of renewable
energy and create a practical and inviting space for collaboration. This project highlights
the university’s commitment to integrating sustainability into the daily lives of
its community.
Fall 2013: Refillable Water Bottle Stations
To combat the rising use of single-use plastics, SGF sponsored the installation of
refillable water bottle stations in high-traffic areas such as the Student Union,
Carlson Library, and the Student Recreation Center. These stations encourage the use
of reusable water bottles, significantly reducing plastic waste and promoting a culture
of sustainability. Positioned strategically across the Main and Health Science campuses,
this project continues to provide convenience for students and staff while contributing
to the university’s long-term waste reduction goals.
Spring 2013: Reusable Bags and Bottles Initiative
Partnering with the Society for Environmental Education, SGF organized a campus-wide
effort to reduce the use of disposable plastics by distributing reusable bags and
bottles. In exchange for plastic alternatives, students and staff received durable
and eco-friendly replacements. This initiative not only raised awareness of the environmental
damage caused by single-use plastics but also offered practical tools for adopting
sustainable habits. It represented a small but impactful step toward a plastic-free
campus, aligning with SGF’s overarching mission.
Spring 2013: Take Back the Tap Day
In collaboration with Student Government, SGF hosted "Take Back the Tap Day," a dedicated educational event to inform the campus about the environmental impacts of plastic water bottles. The event combined informative sessions with the distribution of reusable aluminum bottles, encouraging participants to switch to sustainable alternatives. This initiative demonstrated SGF’s commitment to engaging the community through education and practical action, fostering long-term behavioral changes toward more sustainable hydration practices.
Ongoing: Health Science Tech Park Solar Field
The Health Science Campus (HSC) Tech Park Solar Field stands as a flagship project
for SGF, showcasing the potential of renewable energy at UToledo. Spanning 3.3 acres,
this installation features advanced solar panels designed to generate renewable electricity
while reducing the campus’s reliance on fossil fuels. Beyond energy generation, the
solar field serves as an educational resource, providing students and researchers
with valuable data and practical insights into clean energy technologies. This project
exemplifies SGF’s dedication to impactful, large-scale initiatives that benefit both
the environment and the academic community.
January 2025 Update:
Since November 2020, the Student-Funded HSC Tech Park Solar has produced 1,813,152 kWh for $112,309 of revenue. 65% of the revenue ($73,001) funds HSC Tech Park Solar maintenance or new energy reduction projects. This field also has saved approximately $57,408 in kW demand savings over the same time, for a total revenue/savings of $169,717.