The three South Carolina research universities, University of South Carolina, Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina, collaborate in a multi-year grant to teach sustainability as a concept in as many courses as possible, to make the institutions more sustainable in their own operations, and to expand environmental research, teaching and learning. Thirteen other state-supported schools have become affiliate members of the SUI. Recently, the consortium has started working with non-academic entities as well.

Many of the curriculum initiatives supported by SUI have become institutionalized. The initiative fosters innovative improvements in operations, including a pioneering vermiculture project and work on an environmental management system designed for higher education.

One highlight of the initiative is the establishment of "green buildings" on many of the member campuses. The initiative has also partnered with several governmental and non-profit entities, including Habitat for Humanity, National Wildlife Federation and the S.C. Energy Office. Most recently, SUI has worked with the SC Department of Commerce to strengthen both state and university efforts.

For more information visit: www.sc.edu/sustainableu