The Center for Sustainability advances understanding of sustainability and justice through on- and off-campus programs that help the University reach its goal of climate neutrality, practice responsible consumerism, strengthen a culture of sustainability, and use the campus as a living laboratory for developing solutions that support our common home.
The Forge GardenSCU’s 1/2 acre organic garden serves as a living laboratory for hands-on learning, sustainable food production, and community engagement. Students gather here for research, workshops, service, and the weekly Farm Stand, connecting food systems, climate resilience, and environmental justice in action.
Bucky's ClosetBucky’s Closet is SCU’s free thrift store, providing students with clothing, dorm essentials, and school supplies at no cost. By redistributing donated items year-round, the program reduces waste, expands access, and strengthens a culture of sharing on campus.
More Circular Economy ProgramsIn addition to Bucky’s Closet, the Center for Sustainability offers a variety of Circular Economy programs to develop a culture of sharing, repairing, and reusing goods on campus. These include Zero Waste Move-Out, where items diverted from the landfill are offered free to students at Move Out Marketplaces, Bucky's Closet and and the Bronco Surplus Fall pop-up shop for LEAD Scholars. We also host EcoFashion Show and Makers Nights to promote the reuse and upcycling of clothing as an alternative to fast fashion.
Silicon Valley Power Sustainable Futures ProgramSilicon Valley Power Sustainable Futures Program enhances college access through fellowships and scholarship support for project-based learning for undergraduate students pursuing sustainability-focused studies and careers.
Tree TrackersTree Trackers help gather necessary data on the health and growth of over 2,000 campus trees. This program highlights the importance of our urban forest in combating climate change and contributing to Santa Clara’s natural aesthetic value. Volunteers spend monitor on-campus trees while gaining data collection experience and practice using tools such as a vertex laser and a diameter measuring tape to gather data about tree height, tree diameter, species living in the trees, and more.
Sustainable Food Systems FellowshipSustainable Food Systems Fellowship Program enhances college access through fellowships with project-based learning for undergraduate students. Sustainable Food Systems Fellows lead a research project to study campus food systems and food security at SCU.
