The Daily Gamecock

Students, alumni reflect on 10 years of sustainability at Green Quad

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Monday afternoon, South Carolina students and faculty gathered at Green Quad to celebrate its 10 year anniversary. The celebration was attended by USC’s first lady Mrs. Pastides, associate VP of Student Affairs/Director of Student Development Gene Luna, as well as Green Quad faculty principle Joe Jones.

“Green Quad is a beacon of sustainability not only for USC, but the state of South Carolina,” Pastides said, as she kicked off the event.

Green Quad, built in 2004, was one of the first buildings in the state to be constructed with a green initiative in mind. The building incorporates low-cost building materials, solar panels, and various construction techniques to make the building more energy-efficient.

After its construction, Green Quad’s proven energy efficiency became instrumental for a state statute for other buildings to be built in a similar green style.  But the construction of the quad isn’t the only thing green about it. It's home to 500 USC students, as well as many sustainability-conscious groups on campus such as the Green Scholars, Green Ambassadors, and ECO Reps.  These groups work to promote sustainability, awareness of the environment and let students get a taste of the green initiative.

In the words of Luna, “Sustainable Carolina isn’t an office — it’s an idea.”

Luna was part of the initiative that proposed USC’s first LEED-certified building, and continues to create new ways to make USC more eco-friendly.

For many Green Quad residents, the initiatives have been inspiring. Some shared stories about how Green Quad helped them pursue their interests in sustainability and how time in Green Quad has led to positions in sustainability research, as well as internships in sustainability.

According to Pastides, being green doesn’t solely apply to the environment and sustainability, but also to health and wellness. The Green Quad Learning Center offers free yoga classes, open mic night and Sunday coffee with the faculty for those who want to become more involved.

Monday's celebration wasn’t meant to commemorate cost-efficient construction; rather, it was meant to highlight the green initiative that was started on campus in 2004.  


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