by Christi Mathis
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale Office of Sustainability and the SIU Sustainability Council are now accepting applications for Green Fund grants. The grants, now in their 23rd round, are part of SIU’s ongoing commitment to campus sustainability.
Any SIU student, faculty or staff member is welcome to submit a Green Fund Grant proposal as can registered student organizations, departments and offices. The deadline is March 23.
The university has previously awarded nearly $3.8 million to a total of 357 diverse sustainability projects fostering a variety of goals and initiatives. A student Green Fee of about $10 per semester, adopted in 2009 as the result of a student-led initiative, funds the grants.
SIU Carbondale’s Green Fund has financed hundreds of sustainability projects, including hydroponics, since its inception in 2009. (Photo provided)
Transforming SIU’s biowaste into a plant biostimulant for sustainable plant growth, projects to improve the health of Campus Lake and stave off recurring algae blooms, green roofs and walls, water bottle refill stations, energy-efficient lighting and so much more have been brought to SIU courtesy of grants. The projects have addressed sustainability in areas as wide-ranging as energy, water, waste, transportation, food/dining, social equity, education and outreach, research and much more. In 2025 alone, more than $154,000 was awarded to 17 unique projects. Check out some of the previous projects.
SIU’s sustainability commitment and mission are crucial
Grant applications should address the three sustainability pillars – environmental health, social equity and economic prosperity – and enhance environmental and societal sustainability in one or more of these areas: energy, water, waste, buildings, transportation, purchasing, grounds, food/dining, social equity, social practices, academics and research, or education and outreach.
Projects will get preference if they:
- Include significant student involvement or feature students in leadership roles.
- Incorporate educational, outreach and research components.
- Can secure grant support or other matching funds.
- Clearly articulate maximum benefits for the SIU community for the lowest cost.
- Involve multiple units and departments collaborating.
- Support current ongoing campus sustainability priorities.
The proposals must have signed approval from the involved campus units/departments before receiving any funding. Plans should be in place for any required local, state or federal permits that may be needed and long-term maintenance and operations plans must be incorporated as appropriate.
Find additional details, including frequently asked questions, project criteria, the application and more on the Green Fund Grant webpage. Completed applications can be submitted to greenfund@siu.edu.
Earth Day event will feature announcement
The grant winners will be announced during SIU’s annual Earth Day celebration, happening at 3 p.m. April 22 at the Student Center Auditorium.
“It’s always exciting to see what innovative, unique and inspirational projects the SIU community conceives for the Green Fund Committee to consider funding,” said Brian Croft, executive director of Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center and the Office of Sustainability. “We encourage everyone to get involved, submit their proposals, and make a difference in helping enhance the sustainability of the university and region.”
Environmental Ambassador Awards will also be presented during the celebration to recognize students who volunteer for sustainability initiatives. Additional awards and presentations are slated as well.
April will feature a variety of special activities in honor of Earth Month. Campus units can email sustainability@siu.edu to get involved or to add planned events to the Earth Month calendar.
Learn more
The Green Fund Committee, comprising three students, one faculty member and one staff member, reviews all grant proposals and makes recommendations to the full Sustainability Council, which finalizes the award winners.
Learn more about SIU’s nationally recognized sustainability efforts at sustainability.siu.edu. For more information or questions, stop by the sustainability office, located on the second floor of the Student Center near the International Lounge, or email sustainability@siu.edu.