Florida State University
PRE-2: Points of Distinction

Sustainable practices and solutions aimed at addressing the climate crisis are crucial for long-term societal well-being, environmental health, and economic prosperity, and accomplishing these goals requires innovation and transformational change. FSU is dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary research that will play a critical role in documenting sustainability and climate change challenges, developing solutions (including utilizing FSU as a “living laboratory”), training the next generation of leaders, and creating a culture of innovation and change.

The Sustainability and Climate Solutions $1M grant program is a directive of the Florida State University Office of the President. Research proposals can focus on any aspect of sustainability (including the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability) or climate change (e.g., climate change mitigation, risk assessment and management, adaptation, resilience, public health, business management and entrepreneurship, government and public policies, and education). Interdisciplinary and collaborative proposals are strongly preferred.

Recipients will be expected to pursue external grant funding at the conclusion of the funded project, using the project outcomes as a catalyst for larger external grants and research initiatives.

The Seminole Organic Garden (SOG) works collaboratively with the Food For Thought Pantry (FFTP) to provide fresh produce to students experiencing food insecurity. Any unclaimed produce by the SOG renters is donated to the FFTP so no food is wasted. Additionally, the FFTP has their own bed in SOG in which 100% of produce grown is donated. In the rare case that any produce is not picked up from the pantry, FFTP utilizes the compost at SOG to compost the waste. The compost is then used to enrich the garden beds, completing the cycle.

Rolled out in 2020, the transition to 100% electric-vehicle technology paves the way for Florida State to meet our changing transportation needs on campus, while cultivating a healthier environment for the FSU community with clean, quiet buses.

The 18 buses release zero greenhouse gas emissions, use no liquid fuels, require no oil changes, and operate with 30 percent fewer parts than a traditional bus. Each year, Florida State’s new bus fleet is expected to eliminate more than 5 million pounds of carbon emissions. Over the fleet’s lifespan, it is projected to save about $10 million in fuel and maintenance costs.