Sustainability
Who we are
Facilities and Services - Sustainability is the hub of sustainability efforts at South Dakota State University. Lead by the campus sustainability specialist, it strives to incorporate sustainability in operations, administration, academics and outreach throughout campus.
Sustainability is about doing more good and less harm. With a focus on helping people and the planet, sustainability offers guiding principles for how to provide everyone with basic human needs while living within the means of the natural world. SDSU strives to create a sustainable campus by using the three pillars approach to sustainability: living within the environmental boundaries, caring for people and doing so in a way that maintains a viable economy.
Accomplishments
STARS Silver Rating
Bee Campus USA member since 2018
Tree Campus USA member since 2009
Three LEED Gold and 16 LEED Silver buildings on campus
25.06% diversion rate
Over 600 signed sustainability pledge
South Dakota State University will inspire faculty, staff, students and visitors to live more sustainably through campus-dedicated efforts to achieve environmental, economic and social sustainability.
SDSU promotes and encourages sustainable lifestyles through the integration of sustainability concepts in academics, engagement, operations and administration.
Sustainability is the formation of a better society through the interdependent actions of improving environmental quality, increasing economic prosperity, and instilling social justice for present and future generations. The definition of each pillar of sustainability includes:
- Environmental sustainability – the act of preserving, restoring, and utilizing the earth’s natural resources in a way that does not inhibit ecological services, remove resources faster than they can be replenished or harm the surrounding environment.
- Social sustainability – the act of ensuring all people are treated with equity and have access to basic human rights, including but not limited to: clean water, nutrition, education, healthcare, sanitation, shelter, security, a meaningful livelihood and the opportunity to pursue their aspirations.
- Economic sustainability – the act of distributing money and resources equitably so that all may obtain basic human needs. Being economically sustainable should allow the economy to function, prosper and thrive.
