Water
Water
Water is a precious resource, especially in drought prone San Diego. SDSU has made strides to reduce campus water consumption. The largest identified water users on campus are the cooling towers. These devices improve energy efficiency by evaporating as part of the cooling process. They support the power plant and chilled water plants that provide electricity, steam, and chilled water to campus. Housing usage is the next highest contributor. A large portion of usage is not directly measured, most likely from domestic usage in campus buildings.
Landscape
Campus has been moving towards more responsible landscapes. Several locations, including the Mediterranean Garden, Student Union, Alumni Center, and Centennial Mall feature drought tolerant plants. SDSU received a Campus as a Living Lab grant from the Chancellor's Office. In collaboration with Professor Diana Richardson's Geography of Recreational Land Use class, we have refreshed the lawn space near PSFA. The class recommended prioritizing shading and seating. The site features trees, boulder seats, and native plants. In 2016, campus removed a significant amount of turfgrass at Centennial Mall, replacing it with shaded seating and drought tolerant plants. SDSU has installed 100+ hydration stations all over campus including housing, buildings, and outdoors. Finally, Campus Grown has constructed 55 hydroponic towers to grow herbs and vegetables for campus eateries. These towers save around 80% of water compared to traditional irrigation.
Take Charge
Report on-campus leaks to Facilities Services, run water only when needed, and conserve water at home using high-efficiency fixtures and low-water plants.
