Sustainability Action Plan

Sustainability Action Plan

The Sustainability Action Plan (SAP) is rooted in a holistic approach to sustainability. This is defined as the creation of a just and equitable society and economy and the fostering of ecological health and human well-being.

Our approach to sustainability in this plan embraces interconnectedness. Links exist between all facets of the triple bottom line of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. Through acknowledging these links, we ensure an inclusive and vibrant future for all generations.

The SAP drives progress towards strategies that will:

significantly reduce the College’s ecological footprint;
grow “high impact” learning opportunities around sustainability;
nurture a culture of sustainability; and
generate individual, institutional, community and regional resilience.

You can access the sustainability report from the last academic year here.

Objectives and Strategies

The SAP centers four pillars upon which to build sustainability at CofC. Each pillar includes short and long-range objectives and strategies. These actions form a pathway to achieve our stated goals, while also meeting the College’s strategic commitment to foster a culture of innovation in order to create sustainable solutions to 21st century problems.

Carbon Neutrality
Overall Goal: The College will achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 through:
- reducing energy demand,
- investing in zero emissions energy supply,
- and implementing new initiatives to offset our remaining carbon footprint.
Linked to U.N. SDGs: 2, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15
Zero Waste
Overall Goal: The College will achieve zero waste (≥90% diversion from the landfill) by 2035 through:
- data collection and analysis,
- waste aversion and diversion programming,
- and redefining the traditional take-make-waste linear model of consumption.
Linked to U.N. SDGs: 6, 12, 14
Holistic Integrated Learning
Overall Goal: The College will enhance opportunities for students to gain a deeper understanding of sustainability through:
- building awareness,
- providing experiential learning and research opportunities,
- and through faculty and staff development.
Linked to U.N. SDGs: 4
Active Sustainability Culture
Overall Goal: The College will embed the values of sustainability into the campus culture through:
- educational resources,
- awareness and engagement campaigns,
- and by fostering sustainable behavior and decision making in all facets of the organization.
Linked to U.N. SDGs: 2, 3, 5, 10

Center for Sustainable Development

207 Calhoun St.
Charleston, SC 29424

sustainability@cofc.edu

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday,
9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.