Gonzaga's Green Fund aims to achieve zero emissions by 2050
Thursday, October 12, 2023
Alumni Emma Gashi (‘23) and Abby Dodd (‘23) proposed an innovative solar-powered outdoor charging table that was installed in Spring 2023 behind College Hall. It gives students space to recharge both figuratively and literally. On a sunny day, it becomes a popular study spot for students, showcasing the beautiful views at the center of campus and the abundance of flora.
Gonzaga’s Green Fund enables financial support for sustainability efforts across campus. Budgeted with an optional $5 per semester student fee, the Green Fund was envisioned as part of our first comprehensive Climate Action Plan (approved in 2013) that aims for Gonzaga to achieve climate neutrality – zero emissions – by 2050.
Green Fund gives students an opportunity to gain immersive experience in sustainability by funding student-led projects that enhance sustainability in Gonzaga’s campus operations. With four project cycles throughout the academic year, Zags have ample chance to create change on campus with this one-of-a-kind resource. Recent projects include the solar-powered outdoor charging table on Bulldog Alley and the Gonzaga Campus Garden.
The Gonzaga Campus Garden is a further expansion of greenery, located on East Boone-Sharp Alley near the Office of Sustainability. This Green Fund project provides students with education on growing fresh produce. Over the past three years, more than 1,000 students have picked up over 900 pounds of food harvested from the garden at our free farmer’s market events in the fall.
Green Fund and its council are run by the Gonzaga Student Body Association (GSBA) sustainability effort, led by Grace McDonald (‘24). The council includes 11 students and meets quarterly to review applications. McDonald also meets routinely with each approved project student group to ensure progress is maintained.
Green Fund is a prime example of Gonzaga’s student body’s commitment to sustainability. This dedication has fueled the university’s notable No. 32 on Princeton Review's Top 50 Green Colleges list (2023).
