Continued: 'Genesis 2015'
“We have 156 vehicles that we can convert to alternative fuel right away,” Huggins said. “This plan underscores the fact that the University of South Carolina is a leader among colleges and universities in sustainability efforts, including transportation, which is a key source of carbon emissions.”
The university earned top green ratings from the Princeton Review and the College Sustainability Report Card this fall, placing Carolina among the greenest universities and colleges in the Southeast.
Michael Koman, the university’s director of sustainability, said Genesis 2015 will reduce Carolina’s carbon-dioxide emissions by more than 2,000 tons.
“This is a major initiative to have cleaner air and to develop a clean fuel-supply system,” he said.
Moreover, switching to alternative fuels may boost the agricultural economy across the Palmetto State.
“Farmers could plant crops to meet fuel and food demands,” Koman said, adding that soybeans, corn and switch grasses have the potential to generate extra income for farmers.
Pastides said that student input has been critical in the university’s commitment to making Carolina healthier and greener.
“Sustainability is part of the fabric of life here at the university, and Genesis 2015 will move our transportation efforts forward,” he said.