In 2005, PSU adopted a Declaration of Support for Sustainability that recognized the University’s responsibility to develop solutions that improve the quality of life for all—today and in the future. Sustainability became a central part of PSU’s vision, an area of research enterprise, and a learning outcome for its students. Because it requires knowledge from every field, sustainability at Portland State spans the University to unite creative thinkers from across campus and community. Campus-wide sustainability efforts are organized and managed by three main units: Institute for Sustainable Solutions, Campus Sustainability Office, and the Student Sustainability Center.

The SDGs will be presented to sustainability staff who work across campus and incorporated into the strategic plan of the Student Sustainability Center. PSU will hold events that highlight the SDGs and align efforts with other formal and non-formal educational efforts within the greater Portland region.

PSU convenes advisory councils for both the Institute for Sustainable Solutions (ISS) and the Student Sustainability Center. All three coordinating departments hold annual retreats to coordinate efforts. University efforts are catalogued via annual reports. PSU representatives also participate on the Greater Portland Sustainability Education Network Board, a Regional Center of Expertise on ESD for UNESCO.

Institute for Sustainable Solutions Student Sustainability Center Campus Sustainability Office Community Environmental Services Urban Sustainability Accelerator Academic departments Finance and Administration Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Community partners